Disclaimer
This article is general information only and does not replace medical advice. If you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your health, please seek advice from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
What can I expect in terms of downtime after a rhinoplasty surgery?
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that can address the function and shape of the nose. The length of your recovery will depend on many certain factors, including your individual anatomy, the extent and complexity of your surgical procedure, and your overall health during the healing period.
Read on to find out how long it typically takes to recover from rhinoplasty surgery, as well as what to expect after the procedure…
How long does the recovery take?
Although each patient’s recovery is different, it is recommended that you plan to take around two weeks off work for most types of office jobs. For more physical jobs an extra 1-2 weeks is advised. After discharge and during your first week post op, you will be mostly resting at home. You should be able to resume most of your normal day-to-day activities after around a week to ten days, and it is likely that you will feel up to returning to more physical activities within 4-6 weeks. Your surgeon may recommend that you avoid strenuous exercise, however, for between 4-6 weeks after treatment to help prevent excess swelling of the nose.
One of the side effects of rhinoplasty surgery is swelling. This swelling can take up to a year to completely resolve, although it will be less noticeable after around 2-3 months.
What are the side effects of rhinoplasty?
After your rhinoplasty procedure, you can expect some swelling and bruising at the site of surgery, as well as around the eyes. This bruising can last up to two weeks. You will be required to wear an external nasal splint for your first week and then tape for up to six weeks.
Like any surgical treatment, rhinoplasty is associated with some potential risks. These include bleeding and infection. Some of the risks of rhinoplasty specifically include usually temporary numbness of the skin of the nose; and nosebleeds. These risks and potential complications will be explained by your surgeon at your consultation and you should feel comfortable with this before considering surgery.
When will you see the results?
Although side effects like bruising and swelling will resolve with time, it can take many months or even up to a year to see the final refined results of your rhinoplasty. The healing process takes time, and it is important to understand this before going ahead with the surgery. As the swelling subsides though, you will gradually begin to see how your procedure has addressed the shape and/or function of your nose.
How can we help?
Dr Ricketts has experience in rhinoplasty and will discuss your concerns and expectations with you and let you know if you are a suitable candidate. She will explain the details of the procedure to you, as well as what to expect from the recovery period.
During your consultation, you will have photographs taken, including some with a 3D camera — this allows Dr Ricketts to simulate the changes of your nose so that you see what you can expect from your final results. This is also helpful in showing you the limitations of the procedure to ensure that your expectations are realistic.
If you would like to find out more about the rhinoplasty procedure and what the process involves, please have a look here.
If you are ready to arrange a consultation with Dr Sophie Ricketts, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here.
Surgical Disclaimer
Surgical outcomes vary between individuals. A consultation is required to determine suitability, discuss risks, alternatives, and what may be achievable for your anatomy.
For further information including risks and complications of this surgery go to Dr Sophie Ricketts’ website www.drsophiericketts.com.au/procedures/
