2 Months Post Rhinoplasty and Exercise is Causing Swelling? (photo)

You need to follow the instructions of your surgeon. Most patients can return to full athletic activity within a couple weeks after rhinoplasty.

Hi BenM15,

Thanks for your question.  The typically inflammatory period after surgery lasts no more than 2-3 months on average.   In my practice, at 2 months, my patients actually go back fully to all activities.  This includes contact sports, as the bones of the nose are about as solid as they are going to be by this time.  I always emphasize avoiding contact with the nose as it is still healing, but it can take an accidental knock fairly well.  Your issue is swelling which was pronounced, it seems, when you were 5 weeks postop.  That is quite normal.  My recommendation would be to go ahead and train now.  If you get some mild swelling, a little post-workout icing and maybe some taping can help external swelling.  For internal swelling, some nasal saline, some Sudafed, and a cool mist humidifier should help.

Good luck,

Dr. Shah

Swelling will occur with exercise and other activity and may persist for  year or more. There really is not much to do about it.

Dear Ben,

Thank you for your question and photo.  It appears you have a nice result from the side profile.  Swelling after intense exercise can occur from time to time up to a year from surgery.  The effect gradually diminishes over a year. You can ice the nose after exercise, keep it elevated in a recliner type position when sleeping and take anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen before and after exercise to minimize this.  The swelling will not be harmful long term.

Best Wishes, 

Pablo Prichard, MD

Hello Ben,

Thank you for the question and the photos.  Swelling with exertion at 2 months after a rhinoplasty is normal.  It is not harmful since the swelling is within the tissue and not as fluid collection under the tissue.  I would take caution not to bump your nose as it is still in the early period after your procedure.  Keeping your head elevated at night might also help expedite the removal of that swelling as well.

All the best,

Dr. Remus Repta