What is Recovery Like After Rhinoplasty?

Recovery after rhinoplasty typically involves several stages. Everyone responds to recovery uniquely, depending on the extent of surgery and how their body responds to the healing process. Here’s a general outline of what you might expect:

Immediate Post-Operative Period (First 24 Hours):

• After surgery, you may feel groggy, sleepy, or slightly euphoric from the anesthesia. Our nursing staff will assist you from when you wake up until your ride arrives to drive you home. We recommend that you have someone assist you at home for the first 24 hours of recovery.
• You may experience bleeding and stuffiness in your nose; this is normal. Dr. MacArthur may place a drip pad directly under your nose to absorb blood and mucus.
• You’ll experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort through recovery. Dr. MacArthur can prescribe pain medication to manage discomfort. 
• Rest with your head elevated for at least a week to reduce swelling, minimize fluid buildup, and promote good circulation.

First Week:

• This period involves the most significant recovery. Within 48 hours, swelling and bruising around the eyes and nose will peak. Cold compresses help to reduce swelling.
• You’ll likely wear a nasal splint and may have packing inside your nostrils. It may feel slightly uncomfortable; however, it’s essential to keep the nasal splint and packing in place until removed by Dr. MacArthur.
• Avoid blowing your nose, strenuous activities, and any activities that could risk bumping your nose.

Second Week:

• Most bruising subsides, and swelling decreases. Subtle nose swelling persists for a few months, up to a year.
• You may feel ready to return to work and resume everyday activities. However, avoiding strenuous exercise is essential, especially any movements that may result in a nose injury.
• If you have a nasal splint or external sutures, they’re often removed around this time.

One to Three Months:

• As the swelling continues to subside, you’ll start to get a sense of the new shape of your nose.
• Protecting your nose from any potential impacts (pets, kids, exercise) is essential, as this can affect your final result.

One Year:

The final shape of your nose will be more evident. Swelling often persists in the tip of the nose for several months, especially in cases of extensive surgery.

General Tips:

Follow Dr. MacArthur’s post-operative care instructions carefully. This includes guidelines on cleaning your nose, what to avoid during recovery, taking medications on time, and attending your follow-up appointments.
Avoid sun exposure as much as possible. Sun exposure can cause skin discoloration, skin irritation, and prolonged swelling. Wear sunscreen daily.
Be patient. It can take up to a year or more to see the final result.

If you have a preferred surgery date, do not wait until it’s too late

New Age Medical Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery is a very active aesthetic practice. If you have a preferred surgery date, do not wait until it’s too late. Call (613) 595-1880 to reserve your consultation. Our Patient Coordinators are happy to help you.