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POSTED UNDER Rhinoplasty REVIEWS

Rhinoplasty - 2 months into recovery

ORIGINAL POST

I had an open rhinoplasty done 3 weeks ago....

JeanneB
WORTH IT$9,000
I had an open rhinoplasty done 3 weeks ago. Recovery has been a bit more annoying and uncomfortable than I expected. I had a lot of swelling, bruising, aching, sinus pressure and stuffiness. Those issues are very gradually dissipating. I'm only just now regaining my energy and feelings of well-being. If I had it to do again, I would take 2-3 weeks off work, so I could really have a chance to rest and recover, rather than only one.

I'm still very early in the healing process and I know I have a long way to go before I'll see the final results. I still have a LOT of swelling and even a little bit of lingering bruising under my eyes. My nose definitely looks much better than before, but I still have a hard time not standing in front of the mirror, obsessing over every slight or imagined imperfection. Fortunately I chose a skilled, caring doctor that I trust, so I know I don't need to worry as it will all work out well.

JeanneB's provider

Eric M. Joseph, MD

Eric M. Joseph, MD

Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 627 Reviews
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Replies (1)

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September 23, 2013
I wish you a speedy recovery. Would love to see ur photos. Thanks.
UPDATED FROM JeanneB
23 days post

it appears that I have Hemosiderin Staining under my eyes.

JeanneB
I've seen no improvement in the bruising under my eyes in the past week and it suddenly occurred to me that it's likely Hemosiderin Staining. I've had this problem every time I've had sclerotherapy on my legs and it lasts a full year every time, but it never occurred to me that this was a possibility with rhinoplasty. Black eyes for a year? I'm not happy about this development.

The good news: the stuffiness, numbness, tingling and movement in my nose is improving every day. It's actually starting to feel like part of my body.

The stiffness/poking/moving columella strut has also improved dramatically. I can only feel it now if i talk a lot or eat something that requires a lot of chewing. I guess it just needed a little time to soften and settle.

Replies (5)

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September 23, 2013
What's hemosiderin staining?
September 23, 2013
It's staining from the iron in the blood. Hopefully that's not what I have, but I suspect it is since I've had it a few times before. That's the problem with having surgery; there are so many possible unexpected effects.
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September 24, 2013
I hope you feel better.
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September 24, 2013

Oh gosh! I'm sorry you're dealing with the ongoing black eyes. Here's a thread in the facelift community about makeup for covering bruises. You might check it to see if there's something that might help you make it through this time.

Please keep us updated!

September 24, 2013
Thanks. I'll check it out.
UPDATED FROM JeanneB
2 months post

I added a few before and after pictures.

JeanneB
It's been about 6 weeks since my surgery. I still have a bit of swelling, especially in the tip, and I still have a bit of lingering discoloration under my eyes, but I think my nose is looking pretty good.

My skin is still oilier and rougher looking than normal. I'm glad I'm finally to the point where my nose isn't so sensitive and I can properly wash and exfoliate my face. I've missed my Clarisonic.

Replies (3)

October 13, 2013
Looking really good! Your tip looks amazing now! Ahhh I'm currently missing my Clarisonic! :) Lucky you. When exactly did you start using yours? I need to buy some new brushes anyway.
October 13, 2013
I just started using it yesterday, after my most recent visit with my surgeon. He said the bone is healing well and, other than a hard punch in the nose, there isn't much I can do (within reason, obviously) that will have a permanent affect on my results.
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October 13, 2013
looking good thanks for sharing.