What can I expect during rhinoplasty recovery?
You can expect some bruising and swelling, and you may have black eyes. Immediately after surgery you may have a headache. You will experience some nasal stuffiness, but you should not try to blow your nose for at least two weeks after surgery. The splints and external sutures will remain in place for approximately one week. If you wear glasses, you will need to tape them to your forehead to keep the pressure off of your nose. You can go back to light activity one week after surgery, and strenuous activity should be avoided for at least two weeks. Sun exposure and any activity which could involve bumping your nose must be avoided for at least two months. You will notice results in 8-12 weeks, as the swelling starts to diminish. Your nose will continue to improve in appearance for more than one year as the internal structures, skin, and lymphatic drainage continue to remodel slowly over time.
