Will my nose look unnatural after swelling subsides?

I recently had Rhinoplasty and once my cast was removed my nose looked very square, flat and bony, and looked unnatural. My nose quickly swelled up that day and I was relieved as it eventually looked rounder and more natural-looking. At 4 weeks following surgery I’m happy with my nose but worried that it will look unnatural again once all the swelling is gone. Does the pressure of the cast affect how the nose initially looks once it is first removed, or is this likely to be the new shape of my nose?

3 answers to “Will my nose look unnatural after...”

A: Distortion after Rhinoplasty

By Richard W. Fleming, MD - Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon

It is extremely difficult for the patient to evaluate their nose at the time of cast removal because the tape and cast can cause distortion. It is easier for us(the surgeons) ; we have seen the result before swelling is present. However, if you are happy at one month, it probably will only get better.

A: Rhinoplasty swelling takes at least one year to resolve

By Houtan Chaboki, MD - Washington DC Facial Plastic Surgeon

Swelling following rhinoplasty surgery occurs both on the outside and inside of the nose. All patients feel congested and have nasal obstruction and postnasal drip immediately after rhinoplasty surgery, which is normal. Patients are generally "restaurant ready" and socially acceptable within 2 weeks.... more

A: Your nose is swollen 1 month after surgery.

By Eric M. Joseph, MD - West Orange Facial Plastic Surgeon

Dear Elizabeth, If you like your nose now, it's likely only going to continue to improve. I tell my patients that you'll look funny when the splint is removed. What you see now is more like the final result. Sit tight, and enjoy your summer, and new nose. Best regards.