Rhinoplasty Recovery & Complication Guide

Recovery Timeline

Initial Recovery (1–2 Weeks)

• Days 1–3: Peak swelling, bruising, and nasal congestion.
• Week 1: Splint is worn and usually removed after 7–10 days.
• Return to work/school typically around day 7–10.

Intermediate Recovery (2–6 Weeks)

• Swelling gradually decreases.
• Bruising fades.
• Light exercise may resume after 2–3 weeks.
• Avoid strenuous activity or contact sports until 4–6 weeks.

Long-Term Recovery (3–12 Months)

• Residual swelling (especially at the tip) can persist for months.
• Final nasal shape may not be visible until 6–12 months post-op.

What Can Go Wrong?

General Surgical Risks

• Infection
• Excessive bleeding
• Reaction to anesthesia

Aesthetic Complications

• Asymmetry or unnatural appearance
• Overcorrection or undercorrection
• Visible scarring (especially in open rhinoplasty)
• Patient dissatisfaction with results

Functional Complications

• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Septal perforation (hole in nasal septum)
• Persistent numbness or nerve damage

Long-Term Issues

• Prolonged swelling
• Discoloration or thickened skin
• Implant or graft shifting
• Need for revision surgery (5–15% of cases)

Risk Reduction Tips

• Choose a board-certified facial plastic or ENT surgeon
• Follow post-op care instructions strictly
• Avoid trauma to the healing nose
• Have realistic expectations

Post-Surgery Red Flags Checklist

Immediate Red Flags (First 1–2 Weeks)

• Bleeding: Persistent or worsening nosebleeds
• Infection: Fever, pus, redness, foul odor
• Breathing issues: Sudden or worsening blockage or noise
• Severe pain: Unrelieved by medication
• Vision problems: Blurred, double, or loss of vision
• Rapid swelling: Especially one-sided or increasing

Later Red Flags (Weeks to Months)

• Persistent asymmetry or nasal collapse
• Numbness or tingling not improving after 3 months
• Visible or thick scars that worsen
• Changes in smell or taste
• Bridge collapse or saddle nose deformity

If in doubt: Always contact your surgeon or ENT immediately if anything feels wrong. Many issues are correctable if addressed early.