Nose Job (Rhinoplasty) Guides

Nose Job (Rhinoplasty) Recovery

Whether you are getting rhinoplasty to enhance your breathing for medical reasons or are unhappy with your appearance and choosing to get a nose job for cosmetic reasons, here are tips and guidelines for what to expect after the procedure.  It is important to be aware that the conditions of patients after nose surgery may differ from person to person.  It also varies depending on how extensive the nose job procedure is. It is important to follow all of your cosmetic surgeon or board-certified plastic surgeon recovery instructions to ensure a successful outcome.

How You Will Feel After the Nose Job 

Your cosmetic surgeon  or board certified plastic surgeon may  use nasal packing to help reduce swelling and bleeding.  This packing will give you a stuffed up feeling, which can be smothering.  Depending on your specific situation, your doctor may place a tube or straw in the middle of the nasal packing to help you breathe easier.  It is normal to feel dizzy or get nauseated during the first week after surgery.  You will probably be able to return to work within a week, but your doctor will instruct you to avoid heavy physical exertion for up to four weeks. 

How You Will Look After the Nose Job 

Upon completion of the rhinoplasty procedure you can expect to be bruised under your eyes.  These bruises may change color as they begin to heal which usually takes about 10 days. It is normal to experience some bloody discharge for a few days after surgery.  Make sure you do not stuff tissue or use Q-tips in your nose, which would cause more injury and bleeding.  It is imperative to note that although most of your swelling and inflammation will go away within the first few months, residual swelling may last for up to a year post operation. Take a look at these nose job pictures.

How to Take Care of Yourself After the Nose job  

For the first week after rhinoplasty surgery you will want to sleep with your head and shoulders raised.  This will help to keep the swelling and bruising to a minimum and reduce bleeding.  You may be advised to apply cold packs over your eyes and nose for the first few days.  Refrain from staying in hot places because it can dry out your nose causing it to bleed more.  Humidifiers and Vasoline can help you to avoid this.  It is also recommended to not smoke for two weeks after your procedure.  Smoking can irritate the eyes and prolong your recovery.    

Pain Medication for the Nose Job 

Your cosmetic surgeon  or board certified plastic surgeon will likely prescribe a narcotic analgesic such as Vicodin and/or Percocet to alleviate discomfort after surgery.  These medications are usually only taken for the first few days after your procedure as the actual “pain” dilutes into more of just a general soreness.

Risks and Complications of the Nose Job  

Rhinoplasty (nose job, nose surgery) risks are relatively low but should be discussed with your  cosmetic surgeon or board-certified plastic surgeon before your scheduled procedure.  With any surgical procedure, there is the threat of infection and internal bleeding.  Specific to rhinoplasty (nose job, nose surgery) risks, there is the danger of a nasal obstruction and perforation of the septum.  Unsatisfactory results have also been reported requiring an additional “touch up” surgery.