Rhinoplasty is one of the most common cosmetic procedures. It is highly popular, and hundreds of thousands of people choose to get a nose job each year. This is true among both men and women patients. There are several reasons why people undergo rhinoplasty. It can enhance your facial features, balance your features, improve breathing, and correct a past injury. Sometimes the surgery is done for functional reasons. However, in many cases, it is for aesthetic reasons. A nose job can restore your confidence if you are unhappy with the size or shape of your nose. You may wonder, how long does a nose job take to heal? Below you will find helpful information about the recovery process after rhinoplasty.
How Long Does a Nose Job Take to Heal?
Healing from rhinoplasty progresses in stages, as with many cosmetic surgeries. Most patients feel better after just two weeks. However, it can take up to a year for your nose to fully settle and see your final results. While each patient is uniquely different, below is a standard timeline you can expect after surgery. Consider the following before your nose job surgery.
Immediately After Surgery
Right after surgery, you may have a splint on your nose and packing inside the nostrils. This protects your nose and controls any residual bleeding. Many people experience feelings of grogginess, swelling, or congestion immediately after surgery. You can expect to feel mild pain, bruising, and swelling. This is completely normal and should subside within the first few weeks.
Pain is effectively managed with medication from your plastic surgeon. Bruising and swelling can be managed with cold compresses, rest, and keeping your head elevated. Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, or increasing your blood flow during this time. The first few days are the most challenging, so plan to focus solely on rest. Consider having a trusted friend or family member look after you during this time.
First Week After Surgery
Four to seven days after surgery, you should notice improvements. Many patients are more alert and less sore. However, you will still have visible swelling and bruising. Many plastic surgeons schedule your follow-up appointment during this period of recovery. They will likely remove your splint and any external stitches.
Patients often overestimate their objective level of well-being. While you will feel much better, you still need to dedicate your attention to recovering. Your nose is still healing on the inside. Your body also may need extra time to recuperate, even if you are feeling better. Continue to take it easy for the first week to ensure optimal healing. Avoid wearing glasses, blowing your nose, or touching your nose in general during this period. Continue to avoid exercise and heavy lifting.
Second and Third Week After Surgery
Most of the bruising fades within the second and third week of recovery. You will also notice a substantial reduction in swelling. Many people are feeling fully back to themselves at this point. In fact, most people go back to work by the second week. If you do get out, you can generally wear makeup to cover up any residual bruising. Consult with your plastic surgeon if you have any questions or concerns.
As for movement, light activity is generally fine. Walking is a great way to integrate movement back into your routine. However, you should still avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting. Avoid any activities or sports that could impact your face. Being careful with your nose in all aspects is important. Be gentle when washing your face. You should also avoid wearing glasses until your plastic surgeon clears you to do so.
One Month After Surgery
Most people feel fully recovered after one month. In fact, you will likely be back to your full routine by this point. This includes everything from work, socialization, and exercise. Be sure to get your surgeon’s approval, as every patient is uniquely different. Much of the swelling will have subsided by this point, but it may not be entirely absent. Some patients notice an increase in swelling in the morning and after engaging in physical activity. You should not experience any bruising or pain at this point.
Regarding your nose, you will notice the changes and how it has been refined during surgery. However, it is still changing, so be cautious when handling it. To ensure your healing progresses as expected, please attend all follow-up appointments. Your surgeon can assess your progress and make changes, if necessary.
Three to Six Months After Surgery
Your nose continues to settle over the next few months after surgery. The tissues soften, swelling decreases, and the tip becomes more defined. You will likely notice changes in photos during this period as the results are noticeable. For patients who underwent rhinoplasty for breathing reasons, you will likely notice major improvements at this point. Airflow usually improves steadily, making breathing easier.
It is still necessary to protect your nose during this stage. This includes activities such as sports and anything that could put excessive pressure on the nose. Use care when washing your face. Surgical changes to your nose require you to exercise caution at all times. This reduces the risk of needing a revision rhinoplasty.
One Year After Surgery
A nose job can do wonders for both your aesthetic and functional appearance. Patience is the key when it comes to your post-surgical results. You will almost certainly notice immediate changes. However, it can take six months to one year to fully heal. When you reach that point, though, swelling should be gone, and the final contours of the nose should be clear.
By the one-year mark, your nose should look and feel natural to the touch. It should also function well, and breathing should be easy. Depending on your recovery process, your plastic surgeon may recommend periodic follow-up appointments. Each patient is different, so your journey may not look the same as someone else’s.
Top Plastic Surgeon for Rhinoplasty
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your nose, contact Dr. Brent Moelleken and his team today to schedule a consultation.
