Nose job recovery requires patience. The face and mainly the nose are initially swollen; there are bruises around your eyes. Some bleeding is also common during the first few days.

The application of cold compresses may lessen swelling and bruising. A slight residual swelling may keep on for several months. Bleeding is ordinary for the first few days of a nose job (rhinoplasty) recovery. You will be told not to blow your nose for about one week. As another part of the rhinoplasty post-operation instructions, patients will also be advised not to bend over with their head below the heart as this may increase swelling and bleeding. The nasal packing will be removed after a few days, and the splint (which covers the nose after surgery) and/or stitches, will be removed one to two weeks later.

Generally, part of the recovery process is staying in bed with the head elevated for the first 24 hours. Your face may feel puffy, your nose may ache, and a dull headache may be present. Pain can be managed with medication prescribed by the rhinoplasty surgeon.

Most of the rhinoplasty side effects, like swelling and bruising, will disappear after two to three weeks. Residual swelling may remain for several months to one year after a nose job, but this is usually not noticeable to anyone but the patient and the surgeon. The final results of surgery may not be visible for up to a year.

To learn all about rhinoplasty recovery, talk with Los Angeles rhinoplasty surgeon Dr. Vartany in person by requesting a consultation.