Quick answer
Swelling and bruising peak in the first 2–3 days and the nose feels blocked. The external splint and any internal splints are usually removed around day 7. By the end of the second week most people are back at desk work. The fine swelling at the tip takes months to settle completely.
Recovery day by day
| WHEN | WHAT TO EXPECT |
|---|---|
| Day 0 | Surgery day. There may be a splint on the nose and splints or packing inside. You stay under observation in hospital. |
| Days 1–3 | Swelling and bruising around the eyes are at their worst. Cold compresses and keeping the head raised help. |
| Days 4–6 | Swelling eases and bruises start to turn yellow. Short walks are fine. |
| Day 7 | The splint and stitches are removed at the check-up. You see your nose for the first time; it is important to know it is still swollen. |
| Days 8–14 | Most bruising fades and can be covered with make-up. Most people return to work and social life. |
Times are averages and vary from person to person.
What to watch in the first two weeks
- Sleep on your back with your head raised on two pillows.
- Do not blow your nose; sneeze with your mouth open.
- Avoid bending forward, lifting heavy things and sport.
- Do the nasal rinses regularly as you were shown.
- Do not let glasses rest on your nose.
- Stay away from smoking and alcohol; they slow healing.
- Avoid sun and hot steam (sauna, Turkish bath).
When to call straight away
- Nosebleeding that does not stop or keeps increasing
- Fever above 38 °C
- Severe pain that gets worse despite painkillers
- Changes in vision or rapidly increasing swelling around the eyes
After two weeks
Most of the swelling goes down within the first month. The fine swelling on the tip and bridge fades over 6–12 months, and longer in people with thick skin, so there is no rush to judge the final shape. Keeping your check-up appointments is important to see that healing is on track.
Frequently asked questions
When can I shower after rhinoplasty?
You can shower your body from the first days as long as the splint stays dry. For washing your hair, tilting your head back with help is advised; the details are explained at the check-up.
Is there a lot of pain after surgery?
Most patients complain more of blockage and pressure than pain. Pain is usually controlled with simple painkillers.
When does the bruising go?
Most bruising fades within 10–14 days. Some people hardly bruise; in others it can last a little longer.
When can I start exercising?
Light walks can start after the first week. Running and weights are usually advised after 4–6 weeks, and contact sports later than that.
The content on this site is for general information only. Diagnosis and treatment differ from person to person; please see a doctor about your symptoms.