Major swelling after rhinoplasty. Is this normal? (Photo)

Question

Is this normal? I had my rhinoplasty done on the 9th of march and I look the same as I did before I had it. When the cast was off it was tiny, now it has ballooned!

Ron Hazani, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes it is normal to have a lot of swelling after surgery. This could be treated with steroid injections if necessary. In addition I tend to keep the splint longer if I suspect that swelling is going to be excessive after surgery particularly after open surgery.

Samuel Sohn, MD · Answer

Dear sugarbaby95,Sounds like surgery was performed a little under two weeks ago, so you are still very early from surgery.  The majority of the swelling will be improved by 6-8 weeks, but each patient is different, and activity levels, sleep position, and other health issues can affect the appearance of the nose in this immediate postoperative period.  The cast and tapes that are used during the initial postoperative period, can also help control the swelling - now that the cast and tapes are off, it is possible that it can worsen somewhat.  Regardless, listen to your operating surgeon's recommendations for postoperative management, watch your activity levels, keep your head elevated when you rest, and best of luck with the recovery and result.

Mark Loury, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Swelling is still very likely just two weeks after surgery. The majority of it resolves over two months. To make it subside more quickly sleep with your head elevated and apply warm compresses several times daily. I have my patients gently massage their noses starting from the dorsum to the cheek but I would clear that first with your surgeon. Hope it meets your expectations but patience is necessary

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Since you are only a couple of weeks post op, it is very normal to have swelling.  It takes weeks to months for all the swelling to subside after this surgery.  You may also notice that your nose is more swollen in the morning, and less in the evening.  Follow up with your surgeon as recommended for a complete recovery.

Major swelling after rhinoplasty. Is this normal? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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