Why is my nose more swollen after sleep in the morning?

Question

I’ve had an open rhinoplasty, where the bump was removed and the tip of my nose lifted. However, I’ve noticed it is considerably more swollen in the am after night’s sleep. Also, if I sleep with a neck pillow or with 2 pillows up to this day (3 months post op) it seems smaller during the day?

David Gilpin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question!  You are correct that your nose will appear more swollen after you wake up in the morning.  The reason for this is that fluid in the soft tissues of the nose will collect, because gravity helps to keep this fluid away from the nose and face while you are upright.  When you lie down, your nose is essentially in-line with the heart and the fluid will collect.  As you have pointed out, sleeping semi-upright will help reduce the morning swelling.  Once you are awake and moving around, gravity will help this swelling to go away. Be sure to let your surgeon know about your concerns, and follow your post-operative instructions just as they were given to you. I hope that this helps!-David Gilpin

Why is my nose more swollen after sleep in the morning?

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Why is my nose more swollen after sleep in the morning?

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.