How Long Can Swelling Last After Rhinoplasty?
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Once you make the decision to undergo rhinoplasty — especially if you’ve been unhappy with your nose for many years or even decades — you may be anxious to start loving your new look right away. However, it is important for patients considering rhinoplasty surgery to understand that the results of the procedure will not be immediately apparent, in large part due to postoperative swelling. This normal side effect of rhinoplasty surgery can last for quite some time, though the majority of post-rhinoplasty swelling should resolve fairly quickly.
Here, Pittsburgh, PA, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. James Fernau of Accent on Body Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa provides helpful insights on how long you can potentially expect your swelling after rhinoplasty to last and when your enhanced new nose may start to take shape.
How can rhinoplasty make my nose look more attractive?
Because rhinoplasty surgery can be customized to align with the anatomy, concerns, and goals of each patient, people with a wide variety of concerns can benefit from this popular nose surgery. Some of the most common cosmetic and functional problems with the nose that can be addressed, improved, and even corrected with rhinoplasty surgery in Pittsburgh, PA, include:
- Wide nose
- Large nose
- Humped nose
- Bump in nose
- Hooked nasal tip
- Round nasal tip
- Bulbous nasal tip
- Upturned nose
- Large nostrils
- Asymmetric nostrils
- Crooked nose
- Deviated septum
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Snoring
How is rhinoplasty performed?
Rhinoplasty can be performed as either an open or closed procedure — meaning the incision is placed on the outside of the nose, between the nostrils (open), or within the internal tissues and structures of the nose (closed). The approach taken will depend on the patient’s concerns, nasal anatomy, and other factors. Based on the enhancements planned for the procedure, a rhinoplasty may involve bone or cartilage reduction, cartilage grafting, and other techniques.
What can I expect after a nose job?
Following your rhinoplasty surgery, it is normal to experience some bruising, swelling, discomfort, discharge, and a feeling of nasal congestion. To help minimize and resolve these rhinoplasty side effects, be sure to do the following:
- Sleep on your back with your head/upper body elevated
- Do not put any pressure on your nose
- Do not wear glasses or sunglasses that rest on your nose
- Do not blow your nose
- Do not submerge your head/nose
- Use a gentle saline rinse as recommended
- Follow all of your surgeon’s post-rhinoplasty instructions
How long will my nose be swollen after rhinoplasty surgery?
On average, Pittsburgh, PA, patients can expect their noses to be swollen for several weeks or months after rhinoplasty surgery. Typically, the majority of rhinoplasty swelling will resolve after about 6 – 12 weeks, at which time you may begin to see your newly enhanced nose taking shape. However, residual swelling can last for up to 6 – 12 months in some cases. Still, most patients are able to appreciate a dramatically improved appearance in their nose much sooner.
Get the nose you’ve always wanted — and the one you deserve — with rhinoplasty surgery in Pittsburgh, PA
The size, shape, and other attributes of your nose can have a major impact on your overall facial appearance, self-confidence, and even your comfort and breathing function. Don’t let your nose hold you back any longer. Take the first step toward a nose you love by calling Accent on Body Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa, located in Coraopolis, PA, to schedule your rhinoplasty consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. James Fernau today.