Getting a very minor nose job that doesn't involve breaking of the bone, how long is recovery?

Question

I am getting a nose job next week, but almost all of the surgery is involving the cartilage top of my nose, removing some off the sides and bottom. A tiny bit of the bone on the top of my nose will be shaved off (less than a millimeter) but no bone will be broken in any way. How much will this reduce my recovery time? Will a week off from work be enough? How long will swelling be noticeable? Finally, how long before I can swim/dive from roughly 6 feet above the water again? Thank you.

Thomas Romo, III, MD · Answer

If your surgeon can eliminate the need for osteotomies during your rhinoplasty then that can reduce post operative swelling and bruising. But the final determination will be made by her/him at the time of your surgery.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

When cartilage and bone is removed from the top of the nose, osteotomies of the nasal bones are required, otherwise  the result will create a flat top, open roof deformity. The osteotomy  only creates extra bruising, but the majority of swelling sits in the tip upwards of a year for full healing on a rhinoplasty. It's important to perform to correct and appropriate surgery, regardless of how much time off from work patients have. Look for a very experienced rhinoplasty surgeon  who has dedicated a significant portion of the practice to rhinoplasty, since it is the hardest operation to perform in the entire field of cosmetic surgery

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Recovery will likely be the same except you will have less bruising if the nose does not require osteotomies. The swelling might persist for a year or more.

Dennis Barek, MD (retired) · Answer

Recivery time will be markedly short though I Cannot give a exact time. Everybody heals differently. Swelling black and blue and congestion will be less.

Donald Nunn, MD (retired) · Answer

Even if the nose is not broken your recovery will be about the same.  You may have less bruising and swelling in the nasal bone region and orbital areas but the tip will still swell the same as if the bones were treated.  Generally one week off work for most patients.  Most of the heavy swelling has resolved by 1 month, but some swelling will require a year to resolve.  Ask your surgeon about when activities may resume.  Good luck.  Donald R. Nunn MD  Atlanta Plastic Surgeon

Getting a very minor nose job that doesn't involve breaking of the bone, how long is recovery?

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