Rhinoplasty Recovery: A Day-by-Day Guide
Recovery after rhinoplasty progresses gradually, and its pace depends on the technique used, skin thickness and the extent of the operation. The timeline below is a general guide; your personal follow-up plan is set at your check-ups.
The first 48 hours
There is a splint on the nose and, in most patients, silicone splints inside the nose. Resting with the head elevated, applying cold compresses around the eyes and taking the prescribed medications regularly reduce swelling. Mild pain and a blocked feeling in the nose are expected.
The first week
Bruising and swelling usually peak on days 2 and 3 and then begin to subside. The internal splints and the external splint are mostly removed between days 5 and 10. During this period avoid blowing your nose, bending to lift heavy objects and hot environments.
The second week
Most of the bruising fades and most patients return to desk work and social life. Mild swelling continues on the bridge and tip, so the nose may look slightly fuller than it will eventually be in the first weeks.
Month 1 to month 3
Light exercise can usually be resumed at 3 to 4 weeks, and strenuous and contact sports at 6 weeks at the earliest. In patients who had bone work, wearing glasses is postponed for a few weeks or arranged so that it does not put weight on the nose. Most of the swelling resolves in this period.
Months 3 to 12
The final shape of the bridge usually becomes clear in the first months. The tip is the last area to lose its swelling and may need 6 months to a year, or longer in patients with thick skin, to reach its final shape.
When to contact your doctor
Contact your doctor without delay if you have nosebleeds that do not stop, increasing pain, fever, or redness or discharge from the nose.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does bruising go away after rhinoplasty?
Most of the bruising fades within 10 to 14 days.
When is the splint removed?
The external splint is usually removed within 7 to 10 days.
When can I exercise after rhinoplasty?
Light exercise can be resumed after 3 to 4 weeks, and strenuous and contact sports after 6 weeks at the earliest.
Can I wear glasses after rhinoplasty?
If bone work was done, glasses are postponed for a few weeks or arranged so that they do not put weight on the nose.
When does swelling of the nasal tip go down?
The tip may take 6 months to a year, or longer with thick skin, to reach its final shape.
The information on this page is for general guidance only; the right approach and process for you can only be determined at a consultation. Phone and WhatsApp for consultations: +90 543 456 36 93.
Related pages: Rhinoplasty · Contact and Appointment