How long is recovery for a nose surgery? How long until I go back to work?

I utilize a closed technique, which permits most people to return to work in one week.  Select
a board certified plastic surgeon who is an expert at rhinoplasty.



Kenneth Hughes, MD

There are a lot of factors to take into account in regards to when you can return to work after nasal surgery.  Typically, you will have external as well as internal splints in place for approximately 1 week.  You will also likely have some degree of bruising and swelling, the most obvious of which should resolve in approximately 2 weeks.  In addition, I recommend you avoid strenuous activity for 3 weeks after surgery.  If your job does not require strenuous activity, and you do not mind going back to work with splints and/or  bruising, you may be able to go back within 1 week as long as you are no longer taking narcotic pain medication.  If you do not want your coworkers to know you had nasal surgery, I suggest waiting approximately 2 weeks until the bruising has resolved. 

I use a closed technique which avoids external scars. This technique has been associated with less swelling and a faster resolution of swelling than the open technique. My patients have minimal bruising after 6-7 days. Most of my patients return to work 6-8 days after surgery and are completely fine.