When will I go back to feeling normal and to my full strength after having a rhinoplasty/septoplasty?

This is a complicated question because it depends on so many factors and varies greatly from patient to patient. Typically, patients feel much better at around 1 week. This is usually when the intranasal splints and nasal cast are removed.

Rhinoplasty does not effect your strength. However physical activity restriction is imposed on patients to avoid stress on healing nose and septum,. Four to six weeks of caution is advised.  

Dear realreal01,After septorhinoplasty, it is common to take a few weeks to feel "back to normal." I would discuss with your surgeon expectations for your recovery for your surgery. Depending on what type of surgery you had (primary vs. revision) and what material were used; you may have a prolonged recovery. Also if you surgeon has specifics requests on your sleeping style and exercise regimen this may also affect the recovery time to feeling like yourself. Follow up with your surgeon at your post operative visits and they can discuss with you expectations. All the best, Gina Chu, MD.

After surgery, it's common to go through a cycle of both physical and mental weakness. I encourage my patients to get back to their typical routine as soon as possible to return to a feeling or normalcy.1. Regular eating schedule2. Drinking plenty of water3. Normal sleeping schedule4. Staying active with simple activities (walking) during the day.These strategies will help you get back on track sooner. Ask your surgeon for additional safe strategies.

Dear realreal01, I am not sure how far out you are from your rhinoplasty however most patients feel fine and have their strength back within the first few weeks post surgery. While patients feel fine their activities are still limited for three weeks post-surgery. If you are feeling weak and have a lack of strength then I would suggest seeing your surgeon for an evaluation and possible lab work to rule out any problems and ensure you are on the road to recovery. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.