Rhinoplasty Recovery Timeline: What to Expect Week by Week

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons. Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence: Level V: How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery. The blogs/posts are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.

If you are getting rhinoplasty surgery, also known as a nose job, knowing what is involved in the recovery process is essential to receiving optimal results.

In this blog, we will take you through the healing process from week to week. This will help you know what to expect in terms of recovery time and swelling stages so you are fully aware of where you are in the healing process.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Rhinoplasty?

Healing from a rhinoplasty depends on the type of procedure you receive, your body’s unique healing abilities, and your dedication to aftercare. The early results of a rhinoplasty can be seen in just weeks, with swelling going down within 2-3 months. However, full healing may take up to 12 months.

Week 1

The rhinoplasty procedure will take up to a couple of hours, depending on the complexity of the treatment needed. It is an outpatient surgery that is performed under a general anaesthetic.

You will be allowed to go home on the same day. However, you are required to rest and undertake minimal activity for the first 1-2 weeks after the surgery. This is essential to the healing process.

During the beginning phase of recovery, you will have a bandage on your face and a splint taped to your forehead or cheek supporting your nose. You may experience bloody discharge from the nose so gauze might be attached to the nostrils.

Your nose will be swollen and will appear bruised, and you can expect pain and soreness. Keeping your head elevated while resting will help with the healing process.

Week 2

Typically, this week is when the bandages and splint are removed during your follow up appointment. There will still be bruising and swelling apparent at this point.

You may feel ready to return to work or social activities. However, it is important to avoid strenuous physical activity or exercise at this stage.

Weeks 4-5

At this point, the pain associated with the surgery should be diminished. You will also see a huge reduction in swelling and bruising. This will allow you to see a glimpse of the final results.

You may feel like yourself again but be sure to follow your plastic surgeon’s advice about strenuous activity.

Months 2-3

By this point, your face will start to look and feel like your own again. You will likely also be able to see an improved nose shape, size and/or contour although some swelling will remain.

Months 6-12

Small amounts of swelling may persist in the tip of the nose for up to one year. This problem is more likely if you have thick skin on your nose. Once this issue has resolved, your rhinoplasty is complete, and you can now see your new and improved nose.

Looking for a Rhinoplasty?

Here at Artiste Plastic Surgery, we are renowned for delivering natural-looking results using a combination of craft and advanced medical science. We are led by one of the top specialist plastic surgeons in Sydney, Dr. Jack Zoumaras. Contact us online or call 02 9327 1700 today to book your rhinoplasty consultation.