Will Nose Size Decrease As Swelling Goes Down?

Question

I had my surgery 10 days ago. I was uphappy with the size of my nose as i always felt it stuck out too much! 10 days after surgery and it looks no smaller!! Is the length also something which will decrease over time?

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question!

It is understandable that you are
concerned especially with the size of your nose after the surgery. 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, 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

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

The answer is yes the swelling in the nose will slowly dissipate the majority of the swelling should go down within the first three months and the residual swelling in the tissues and tip may take a full year to completely heal. Give this some time and you should see improvement    in the near future. Best regards!

Talmage J. Raine, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

This is the most common question and concern after nose surgery.  Because of the position and composition of the nose it takes an exceedingly long time to have all the swelling go away.  Surely your plastic surgeon explained this to you.  Think of the tissues of the nose as a sponge.  This sponge takes a long time to dissipate all the water it is holding.  Patience is a virtue and your best friend.

	Wishing you all the best,

	Tal Raine MD FACS

Will Nose Size Decrease As Swelling Goes Down?

Answers (3)