Will The Final Result of Surgery End Up Like The Nose Appearance Just After Cast Removal?

Question

Is it true that after cast removal your pretty much looking at the end result? After the cast comes off your nose will swell for months, and should technically reduce down to the same size as when you first saw your nose after cast removal?

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

With rhinoplasty surgery, there is usually quite a bit of swelling post-op.  So, don't get discouraged with any swelling in the first few weeks.  While you will see nice changes right away, it may take weeks to months to see your final result.  

	 

	Good Luck.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

It takes at least a year before the final full healing effect of a rhinoplasty is seen. When the cast is removed the only real visible change is the bridge line and the width of the bones. The tip of the nose and the profile of the bridge are still extremely swollen when the cast is removed so it is impossible to see the new nose. The nose will start to take shape at 1-3 months after the procedure but will take quite some time for all tip swelling to come down which is accentuated by dark skin, fluid retention, and tip techniques that are performed during the procedure.

Robert Kotler, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Rhandy:

	When you have the splint or protector removed, the nose is invariably still swollen.  It will look better each day thereafter.  Generally by 7-10 days it looks quite good and you are going to be quite pleased with your appearance and not reluctant to be in public.

	The reality is that the nose, like wine, takes time to ripen.  It will look better at one month than at two weeks, and will look better at two months than at one month.  Typically we judge the results somewhere between the fourth and sixth month.  We also do a one-year check.  The reality is, do not expect your nose to look as good as it will be immediately after surgery.  Your surgeon will remind you of this. 

	Robert Kotler, MD, FACS
	Facial Plastic Surgeon
	Author, SECRETS OF A BEVERLY HILLS COSMETIC SURGEON
	Author, THE ESSENTIAL COSMETIC SURGERY COMPANION

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

It is true that the splint will control swelling such that as the splint is removed the nose should look quite well. There will be considerable stiffness in the tip, and some swelling up along the bridge, and the 'final' result it not declared until about one year after. But as the splint comes off, we like the nose to look pretty close to what it will be.
	Best of luck, peterejohnsonmd.com

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

When the cast is removed from your nose, you will have quite a bit of swelling especially in the tip. I would not say that is the final look that you will see in several months. The general shape will be there but it will be swollen.

Will The Final Result of Surgery End Up Like The Nose Appearance Just After Cast Removal?

Answers (5)