Although patients heal at different rates, and the extent of their surgery will heavily influence their post-operative downtime, Dr. W. Matthew White provides patients with a general overview of what they can expect following their rhinoplasty. Since the procedure is invasive in nature, bruising and swelling are normal to experience for several days following the surgery, but these should both fade as the body continues to heal. Any aching sensations or other discomfort can be managed with the help of oral pain medication.
Dr. White typically recommends rhinoplasty patients take a week off from work or school for recovery. At about this time, the bandages can be removed, and bruising and swelling should have significantly diminished. Many patients feel presentable enough to go into public after the first week, but this decision varies according to the individual. Patients should refrain from any strenuous activity for the first three weeks to not interfere with the healing process. After one month, patients can begin to see how their final results will look. However, it can take up to a year to see the final outcome.
Dr. White states some good rules are:
- Take a week off to recover.
- After two weeks, in general, none of your friends, co-workers or family will know you had surgery – but YOU will know. You will feel mild swelling and minor signs of healing and inflammation for six months, up to a year after surgery.
- It will take a month before you are “red carpet ready” – in other words, give yourself a month to recover before major life events, like a wedding, job interview, camera appearance or photo shoot.
Should you experience any problems during your recovery, it is important to contact your physician. If you have any questions regarding rhinoplasty, or would like to schedule your consultation with Dr. White, please contact us today!
