How Long It Takes to Recover From Rhinoplasty

A rhinoplasty, commonly known as a “nose job,” is performed for reasons that go beyond cosmetics, including improving breathing or repairing injuries and birth defects. Anyone considering the surgery should understand the recovery time before deciding whether it is right for them.

The procedure is increasing in popularity. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons estimates that 1.6 million cosmetic procedures were performed in 2023. Facial procedures, including rhinoplasty, increased by 5% to 6%, according to the same statistics.

“While many people think of rhinoplasty as simply changing the way the nose looks, it’s actually a highly customized procedure that requires a detailed understanding of facial balance, nasal anatomy and breathing function,” says Dr. David Lieberman, a double board-certified plastic surgeon and medical director at L&P Aesthetics in California.

Before Rhinoplasty Surgery

Plastic surgeons evaluate candidates to determine whether the procedure is appropriate. “Ideal candidates are generally healthy adults who have completed facial growth, do not smoke and have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve,” Lieberman says. Some people seek rhinoplasty to revise an earlier procedure, correct a crooked nose or address trouble breathing.

Medical guidance varies by patient. Discuss the procedure, risks and recovery plan with a qualified health care professional.

The Rhinoplasty Recovery Timeline

Recovery starts immediately, but full recovery can take up to a year. Here’s what patients can expect at each stage, according to Lieberman:

• Days one to three: These are often the most difficult days, with sutures in place, a cast on the nose and possible bruising, pressure or discomfort.
• Days three to six: Discomfort may improve. The cast and sutures typically come off around the sixth day, though swelling remains.
• Days seven to 10: Most patients begin returning to normal routines.
• Weeks six to eight: Much of the remaining swelling resolves.
• Months two to 12: Subtle swelling reductions and changes in the nasal structure continue.

What Can Affect Recovery

The ASPS notes that recovery can differ based on skin thickness and the surgical method. People with thicker skin near the tip of the nose may experience more swelling. An open rhinoplasty, which uses an incision between the nostrils, can cause more swelling and bruising; a closed rhinoplasty is performed inside the nose and does not leave an external scar.

Tips for Recovery

Rest, follow your physician’s instructions and ask about ways to control pain. Most patients report mild discomfort, typically during the first few days, that can be managed with prescribed medication, rest and cool compresses, according to Lieberman. Contact your doctor with questions or concerns, especially during the first two weeks or at any point during recovery.

When choosing a surgeon, look for one who is board-certified in facial plastic surgery or plastic surgery, performs rhinoplasty regularly and has a portfolio of results aligned with your goals, Lieberman advises.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY. Reporting by Alexandra Frost, USA TODAY. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect.