After Rhinoplasty, How Often Do We See Prolonged Swelling?

Recovery after rhinoplasty will vary based on the person, characteristics of the nasal tissues and what was done during surgery. After rhinoplasty, tip shape is typically the last thing to settle before seeing the final result; this can take 12 months or longer. During this time you will notice that the size of your tip decreases as swelling resolves and subtle details and tip definition appear. Additionally, the tip may descend causing the tip to rotate downwards (depending on what was done during surgery). It can take somewhere in and around 12-18 months to see the final results. The areas with thicker skin in the nose such as the tip, alar rims and radix will require longer to settle. Minor tip and alar rim asymmetries can be related to swelling and will continue to change as swelling resolves and scar tissue matures. You are still swollen and this can contribute to what you are seeing and will likely still improve over the next 6-12 months. It's hard but important to stay patient during your recovery and to be diligent attending your follow-up appointments with your surgeon.

Thank you for your question!



It is understandable that you are
concerned especially with the "tear shaped nose". Changes after rhinoplasties vary with
every patient and what you are experiencing is normal especially that swelling
takes time to subside as it masks the results of your surgery.



Without pictures, the lack of surgical
details and the inability to perform a physical exam it is not possible to
provide you with a definitive medical answer.



It is important to keep in mind that it
is early to pass a judgment. Usually, a year is required before formulating how
your nose will be, but longer with a thick skin. Even then, your nose will keep
shaping itself to complement your face for better results in the years to come.



My best recommendation at the moment is
to be patient, allow nature to take its course and edema subsides for better
results. There is no doubt that once the swelling resolves, more definition and
shape will be achieved and you should be happier with the results.



Also, it is important that you keep
communicating with your surgeon and work as a team together to achieve the best
results possible.



Congratulations on your surgery and
please remain positive!



Ali Sajjadian, MD FACS

The swelling after the rhinoplasty procedure can last up to one year. This is how long it really takes for the full recovery from the rhinoplasty surgery. You can notice asymmetrical swelling from time to time around your face, eye area. It is very common and normal. With more swelling patients report some breathing difficulties on certain days. There can be numbness still present. You should follow up with your surgeon just to make sure your recovery is going well.

However , nevertheless , most patients look very good just after 2 weeks after surgery