The initial days following your rhinoplasty surgery are crucial for managing discomfort and beginning the healing process. You will be closely monitored by our medical team.

Expected Sensations: Swelling, bruising around the eyes and nose, and mild discomfort are common. You may also experience some temporary numbness or a feeling of stuffiness, similar to a cold, due to internal swelling.

Splint and Packing: An external splint or cast will be placed on your nose to protect it and maintain its new shape. Internal splints or soft packing may also be used to support the septum and reduce bleeding.

Pain Management: Prescribed pain medication should be taken as directed to ensure your comfort during this critical early phase.

Rest and Elevation: Adequate rest is vital. Keeping your head elevated, especially while sleeping (using extra pillows or a recliner), is highly recommended to minimise swelling and discomfort.

As initial swelling begins to subside, patients gradually resume light activities while avoiding  anything that may disrupt the healing process.

Splint/Suture Removal: The external splint or cast is typically removed within 5-7 days during a follow-up visit. Any non-dissolvable sutures will also be removed at this time.

Continued Swelling & Bruising: While the most prominent bruising around the eyes will begin to fade, significant swelling, particularly in the nasal tip, will persist. This is normal and will gradually improve.

Activity Restrictions: Light activities, such as short walks, can usually resume within a few days. However, it is vital to avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, bending, or any activities that increase blood pressure to the face, as these can prolong swelling or risk injury.

Numbness or Altered Sensation: It’s common to experience numbness or altered sensations in the nasal area, especially the tip. This usually begins to improve over time.

Use of Glasses: Glasses should not rest directly on the nose during early recovery, to avoid pressure on healing tissue.

Sun Exposure: Patients should avoid direct sun exposure to the nose and use sun protection, as UV exposure may affect healing and skin pigmentation.

The nose continues to heal gradually over the following months. While most visible swelling subsides within the first six weeks, final refinement takes longer.

Swelling Resolution: While most visible swelling subsides by 3-6 weeks, subtle swelling, particularly in the nasal tip, can persist for many months. This will gradually resolve, revealing the final refined shape.

Activity Progression: You can gradually reintroduce more strenuous activities and exercise as tolerated and as advised by your surgeon, typically after 4-6 weeks.

Scar Maturation: Incisions will result in scars, which will initially appear red and raised. Over time, these scars will fade, flatten, and become less noticeable. You will be advised on scar management techniques to help improve their appearance and texture.

Long-Term Care: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and protecting your nose from injury will help preserve your results. Regular follow-up appointments will continue to monitor your long-term outcome.