Wondering if things could be improved after surgery is completely natural — but the only honest answer often comes after healing is complete. Complete healing after rhinoplasty can take up to 18 months, especially in patients with thicker skin. How your tissues settle depends on several factors — the surgical technique, your skin’s properties, and your natural healing response. It’s entirely normal for minor refinements in definition and swelling to evolve gradually over this period. That’s why allowing your nose to fully settle before considering any revisions or additional treatments is so important — particularly when skin thickness can obscure subtle contour changes for longer. You can support the healing process by staying hydrated, limiting sodium, walking daily, eating potassium-rich foods, drinking green tea, and avoiding alcohol. Elevating your legs during rest and supplementing with magnesium may improve circulation, while bromelain can help manage persistent swelling in the later phases of recovery. At the 18-month mark, an in-person evaluation with your surgeon will provide the clearest understanding of your healing progress and whether any next steps are necessary.