Recovery Following Rhinoplasty

A friend or relative will need to come and pick you up and stay with you at home for 24 hours. During this time your face will feel puffy, your nose may ache, and you may have a dull headache, all of which can be controlled by the pain medication prescribed to you. You should plan on staying in bed for a day after surgery with your head elevated.

A little bleeding is common during the first few days following plastic surgery procedure, and you may continue to feel some stuffiness for several weeks. You should not to blow your nose for a week or so to allow the tissues to heal. After a few days the nasal packing will be removed and after 10 to 14 days the external splint or cast will be removed, allowing you to feel much more comfortable.

Swelling and bruising around your eyes will reach a peak after two or three days, and can be reduced by applying cold compresses. While major swelling and bruising should disappear within about two weeks, some subtle swelling – unnoticeable to anyone but you and your surgeon – will remain for several months, especially in the tip of your nose.

Most of our rhinoplasty Toronto / Mississauga patients are up and about after two days, and able to return to school or sedentary work a week or so following surgery. It will be several weeks, however, before you return to your normal pace.