What to Expect After Rhinoplasty: Recovery, Care, and Results
Considering rhinoplasty? Whether you’re curious about the process or preparing for surgery, understanding what happens during recovery helps you set realistic expectations and achieve the best results. Here’s a clear guide on what to expect after your nose surgery with Dr. Luis Suarez.
Taking Time Off
Plan to take about two weeks off from work, school, or strenuous activities. During this time, swelling and bruising will gradually subside. Rest is essential for your body to heal properly and avoid complications.
Bruising and Swelling Are Normal
Swelling and bruising are completely normal after rhinoplasty and vary from patient to patient. Most swelling peaks around day 3 and begins to improve by day 7. Discoloration around the eyes will also fade gradually.
The First Week After Surgery
The first week is the most challenging. You’ll have cotton plugs inside your nose, which are usually removed between day 3 and day 7, depending on your surgeon’s recommendation. Breathing through your mouth during this time can feel uncomfortable. A nasal splint is placed after surgery and typically removed at your one-week follow-up appointment.
Once the plugs and splint are removed, recovery becomes easier, and you’ll start feeling more comfortable.
Discomfort and Bleeding
Some discomfort or mild pain is normal, but significant pain is rare. Minor bleeding from the nostrils may occur during the first few days — this is expected and usually stops within 3–5 days. Keeping your head elevated can help reduce swelling and bleeding.
Avoid Exercise
For the first 3–4 weeks, avoid physical activities, workouts, or heavy lifting. Exercise too soon can increase swelling or delay recovery. Resume only when your surgeon confirms it’s safe.
Post-Operative Follow-Up
During your first post-op visit, your surgeon will remove the splint and, if you had an open rhinoplasty, the external stitches. Micropore tape may be applied to help control swelling for another week. Use this visit to ask any questions and discuss your healing progress.
Patience Is Key
Rhinoplasty results take time to fully appear. You’ll notice improvements within the first few weeks, but complete healing — especially internal — can take 6 months to 1 year. Temporary swelling, numbness, or minor irregularities are common early on. Your final result will be refined as healing continues.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Always select a board-certified plastic surgeon who understands your goals, maintains high ethical standards, and has extensive experience in facial surgery. Comfort and communication with your surgeon are essential for achieving results that look natural and harmonious.
How to Know If You’re a Candidate
To find out if you’re a good candidate for rhinoplasty, complete a Virtual Consultation. You’ll be asked a few questions and to upload photos for a personalized assessment and quote tailored to your anatomy and goals.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does swelling last after rhinoplasty?
Most swelling subsides after 2–4 weeks, but subtle changes continue for several months. Final results are typically visible after one year.
When can I return to work or school?
Most patients return to work or school within 10–14 days, once bruising and swelling have improved significantly.
Can I wear glasses after rhinoplasty?
It’s best to avoid glasses or anything resting on the nose for at least 4–6 weeks, as it may affect healing or alter the nasal shape.
START A VIRTUAL CONSULTATION
A virtual consultation is when you send us photos of the places of your body where you’d like to improve. Then our surgeon analyzes it to confirm that you are a candidate for that particular procedure. We later inform you about our doctor’s decision and give you a quote with all the information about your surgery. Please, do be at ease that everything is confidential between yourself, the doctor, and the doctor’s representative.
START A VIRTUAL CONSULTATION
A virtual consultation is when you send us photos of the places of your body where you’d like to improve. Then our surgeon analyzes it to confirm that you are a candidate for that particular procedure. We later inform you about our doctor’s decision and give you a quote with all the information about your surgery. Please, do be at ease that everything is confidential between yourself, the doctor, and the doctor’s representative.
