Why do I look like Avatar after my rhinoplasty? can I get my nostrils close or even back to how they use to look?

Question

Hi, it’s been eight days since I had my rhinoplasty, I had my cast removed yesterday and I can’t stop crying!! I know everyone says it’s to early to tell, it’s still swollen, give it time, but I can’t get over the fact that I look like an Avatar, I look like a character!! And to tell you the truth I didn’t experience a lot of swelling so I think the end result is not going to look much different from how it looks now . I can’t stand to look at myself in the mirror!!

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

You need to have patience with your body as it begins to heal. The skin, bone and cartilage are all traumatized during surgery. Inflammation (swelling) is the normal response and will help your nose to heal and look beautiful in the end. Right now, concentrate on other things you like to do and let your nose and under eyes take the time to heal. It can take up a year for your final results. I hope this helps.

Mark Beaty, MD · Answer

Swelling after rhinoplasty is the norm and your photos show what appears to be quite a bit of swelling.  This will gradually dissipate over several months.  You can expect the majority of the swelling to go down during the first 12 weeks and then gradual change over the first year to your final result.  It may be difficult to be patient but your results will continue to change over time.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Swelling is maximum after rhinoplasty 1 to 2 weeks after the operation. You'll see considerable change in the nose over the next few weeks.

Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS · Answer

Try not to worry. You have to give yourself some more healing time.  Your nose and surrounding areas are going to be swollen for a while and you should be consulting the surgeon that performed the procedure. However, give yourself some time before going back in so some of it can subside. It can take up to a year for final results.
Sincerely,
Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Raghu Athre, MD · Answer

Please give your results time ; which can take between 6-8 months before seeing the final result.

Why do I look like Avatar after my rhinoplasty? can I get my nostrils close or even back to how they use to look?

Answers (6)

Answer: Swelling after Rhinoplasty & Results

Answer: Swelling after Rhinoplasty & Results

Answer: Results take time

Answer: Results take time

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about African American Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Why do I look like Avatar after my rhinoplasty? can I get my nostrils close or even back to how they use to look?

Answers (6)

Answer: Swelling after Rhinoplasty & Results

Answer: Swelling after Rhinoplasty & Results

Answer: Results take time

Answer: Results take time

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about African American Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.