Nose looks twice as big after rhinoplasty. 2 weeks post-op. (Photos)

Question

Hi, I am two weeks post-op and feel discouraged that my surgeon did not listen to my concerns. I had a septo-rhinoplasty with the goal of removing the bump on the bridge, narrowing the width, refining and shortening tip; all of which he agreed that he could do. After spending $16,000, I feel extremely depressed that my goals were not met and that my nose does not look that much different than before. If I was unhappy when the cast was removed, will I be disappointed with the final result?

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. After only to weeks post op is normal to have swelling and it persist sometimes for 6-8 months post op or more. I recommend you to be calm cause is too early to judge results. Kind regards

Armand V. Simone, MD · Answer

There is usually a significant amount of swelling following rhinoplasty. It takes 8-12 months for it all to settle down... You look normal for 2 weeks following surgery --be patient...
Armand Simone, MD FACS   New York, NY
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is very common for patients to be swollen at two weeks out.  It will take months for the swelling to subside and for you to see the final result. Please be patient.

Jon Kurkjian, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. 
With Rhinoplasty, the name of the game is patience. At one week, we would expect you to have quite a bit of swelling and bruising still noticeable. By the end of two weeks, typically, you will still be swollen but look more like you have a bad cold, rather than post surgical. Swelling can take up to a year to be completely gone, however, by 9 weeks you will look very good and should see big difference from your pre-op pics. I encourage you to stay patient.

Nose looks twice as big after rhinoplasty. 2 weeks post-op. (Photos)

Answers (4)