How Long Does it Take to Recover From Rhinoplasty?

Getting ready for your rhinoplasty is an exciting step toward the look you’ve been dreaming of—but let’s be honest, it’s normal to feel a bit nervous, too! The key to loving your results lies in a smooth recovery, and understanding what to expect during the healing process can make all the difference. With a bit of patience and the right mindset, you’ll breeze through the rhinoplasty recovery swelling stages and be one step closer to unveiling your new look.

Preparing for Rhinoplasty

Ensuring a smooth, comfortable recovery begins before your surgery. Preparing for cosmetic surgery usually includes filling prescriptions for pain medication and avoiding medications that can increase bleeding (such as blood thinner and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs). We also recommend refrigerating prepared meals and creating a comfortable recovery “nest” where you’ll have everything you need nearby.

Rhinoplasty Before and After Photos

Rhinoplasty Recovery Stages

For both women and men, the rhinoplasty recovery journey is about watching swelling and bruising gradually fade away, revealing your new look step by step. During the first week, using cold compresses, resting, and avoiding activities that increase blood flow to the face will help manage swelling.

During this time:

• Your nose will be covered with a splint or cast
• You’ll need to keep your head elevated to reduce swelling
• Breathing through your nose might be challenging

Our board-certified plastic surgeons recommend taking a week off work to focus on rest and healing. They usually remove the splint 5 to 7 days after the surgery.  

Dietary changes are also part of post-rhinoplasty care. Eating a healthy diet based on soft foods and drinking plenty of water helps avoid strain on the nasal septum.

Weeks 2 to 4: The Turning Point

You’ll get your first glimpse of your new nose when your surgeon removes the splint, but don’t get too excited yet—there’s still a lot of swelling. You may see a dramatic reduction in initial facial swelling and bruising during the second to the fourth week after your surgery. As your tissues continue to heal and blood vessels recover, you’ll see bruising gradually fade, giving you a clearer picture of your results.

Months 1 to 3: The Refinement Stage

You’ll see continuous improvement as you progress through the first few months. By the 3-month mark, about 90% of the swelling should have subsided. Though some subtle changes will continue, you’ll have a good idea of your new nose’s shape.

6 to 12 Months: The Final Stretch

Patience is key in rhinoplasty recovery. While you’ll look great after a few months, the final, refined results typically emerge between 6 to 12 months post-surgery. Any lingering swelling gradually fades during this time, and your nose settles beautifully into its new look.

Recovery Milestones

Besides the physical healing after rhinoplasty, you’ll have to adjust your lifestyle a bit. For example, you won’t be able to drive, participate in contact sports, or exercise for a while.

When Can I Drive After Rhinoplasty?

One of the most common questions after rhinoplasty is, “When can I get behind the wheel?” The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might hope. The main concern is how long you’ll need prescription pain medication, as it can make driving unsafe. Once you’re off the meds—typically around 2 to 4 days post-surgery—it’s best to stick to short trips at first. For longer drives, we recommend waiting a full 1 to 2 weeks to make sure you’re comfortable and safe behind the wheel.

When Can I Work Out After Rhinoplasty?

Many of our rhinoplasty patients exercise regularly and want to return to the gym, running, or swimming as soon as possible. For the first week post-surgery, focus on rest. Light walking is okay, but avoid anything that elevates your heart rate or blood pressure. After about 3 weeks, you can typically resume light, non-weight-bearing exercises.

Each patient is different, but here is a general timeline of what you can expect:

• Weeks 1 to 2: Light walking only
• Weeks 3 to 4: Low-impact cardio (stationary bike, elliptical)
• Weeks 4 to 6: Gradually increase intensity, but avoid contact sports
• 6+ weeks: Return to most normal activities with your surgeon’s approval

You should wait about 4 weeks before getting back into a pool. If you swim laps and wear goggles, you’ll need to wait longer. Ask your surgeon about when you can resume swimming for exercise.

Is Recovery the Same for Open and Closed Rhinoplasty?

Recovery following a closed rhinoplasty is typically shorter than after an open rhinoplasty, which involves more swelling and bruising. Your surgeon will recommend the technique that is the best approach for your concerns and goals. You can read more about the different techniques in this related blog post.

Healing after rhinoplasty is a unique journey for everyone, but it always calls for a little time, patience, and care. By sticking closely to your surgeon’s postoperative instructions, you can set yourself up for a smooth recovery—and look forward to enjoying the nose you’ve been dreaming of.

Ready To Get Started?

We invite you to request a consultation with one of our surgeons using the online form or by calling the Swan Center for Plastic Surgery at (770) 667-0904.