Is 10 days post op too soon to judge a rhinoplasty result? I just got my splint off and I am beyond disappointed with what I see

Question

I had an open rhinoplasty on September 19. I had a deviated septum fixed, a bone spur removed, and he was supposed to straighten and lower my bridge, remove the bump, and deproject and refine my tip. After getting the splint off today, 10 days later, I want to cry. I hate it. My tip looks as projected as before and is bulbous + huge and my bridge looks big too. The bump is gone but I feel like I look even worse than before. Is this just swelling??? Is it possible underneath this is a nice nose?

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

10 days after surgery is much too early to judge the results of your rhinoplasty procedure.  There still will be significant swelling present at this time and the appearance of your nose will continue to improve over more time.  It can take 6-12 months for the healing process to occur.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

It is way too soon to see your final outcome. Swelling can persist for 6 to 9 months. In the meantime be sure to sleep with your head elevated to keep the swelling down. You should not start an exercise program until you get clearance from your doctor. I have my patients wait for 4 to 6 weeks before resuming exercise. Good luck!

Is 10 days post op too soon to judge a rhinoplasty result? I just got my splint off and I am beyond disappointed with what I see

Answers (2)