There is a very common question by a number of patients after their nose job or rhinoplasty procedure: My nose is swollen after the rhinoplasty. Is the nose job swelling a common occurrence? How long will the swelling on my nose after plastic surgery procedure last?
Let us understand what Rhinoplasty is: Rhinoplasty or nose job refers to surgical modification of the nose. There are numerous technique variations on these procedures. It can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. There are two likely methods. The first method is closed procedure. Incisions are made inside the nose in this method. The other is open procedure. This one requires additional incisions across the columella, which is the small piece of skin that separates the nostrils. These incisions let the surgeon visualize the size and shape of the cartilages and bones inside the nose so they can be modified. Read about crooked nose after rhinoplasty here.
Common reasons for nose jobs are enhancement of nose function and modification of appearance. It can also be due to traumatic deformity caused by accidents. Displacement and damage of the nasal bones can be results of these traumatic accidents. Rhinoplasty permits the re-alignment of the nasal bones. A nose job normally is sought for a slight change in appearance but can be a striking revision for some.
Recovery from Post Nose Job Swelling
Nose job swelling or Rhinoplasty Swelling is expected after such procedure and could last for several months on some  occasions. Follow your surgeon’s orders and recognize when something is wrong.
Here are some tips to quickly recover from swelling after the nasal plastic surgery:
- Abstain from alcoholic beverages to help hasten the healing
- Stay away from over-the-counter pain relievers at least ten days before surgery
- Start walking as soon as you can. This will promote better circulation
- Put cold compress around the nose but not directly on it
- Keep head elevated while walking and sleeping
- Use natural treatment like arnica with permission from your surgeon
- No vigorous activities
- Avoid hot showers, as this will increase the swelling
- Low sodium diet is encouraged
Swelling After Rhinoplasty
How Long Will the Nose Swelling Last?
Swelling is expected around the nose and eyes right away after surgery. It will continue to increase in the next few days. Typically, most of the swelling will subside after 14 days post-op. Slight swelling could remain but hardly visible to other people.
This can remain for a few months.
Nose job swelling is usually more notable during the morning and fades as the day progresses. It can also resurface from time to time in the first year after surgery. These tips are means of helping your healing time with regards to the swelling. Follow–up visits would be helpful in the subsequent months so the surgeon can assess the progress of your healing.