After getting the splint off, my nose is getting bigger after Rhinoplasty?

Question

I had reduction Rhinoplasty to make the nose smaller. After getting the splint off, I was happy cause my nose seemed small but everytime now I look in the mirror it seems to be getting bigger. Is this normal and will it go down again?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

The size of your nose is most likely affected by swelling at the moment. Swelling is common in the months after surgery, and will gradually subside. Keep your head elevated to keep swelling to a minimum. You should sleep with your head slightly elevated as well.

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It’s not unusual for patients to note swelling when their nasal splints are removed.  The presence of a splint molds the nasal bones in place following rhinoplasty.  It also helps to diminish swelling.  For these reasons it’s not unusual for the nose to suddenly swell when splints are removed.  It’s important to realize that this swelling is normal and resolves with the passage of time.
  
            Most patients will note significant swelling for about two to three weeks following surgery.  After two weeks, most patients are able to resume their normal lives and go out in public.
  
            Swelling will persist in most patients for at least one year following surgery, with the nasal tip being the last site to experience resolution.  In the immediate post-operative period, nasal splints, elevation of the head and ice can be used to minimize swelling.
  
            It’s important to maintain good communication with your plastic surgeon.  Your surgeon should be able to reassure you and alleviate your anxiety.

C. Spencer Cochran, MD · Answer

Be patient. Rhinoplasty results can take time to become apparent.  The amount of swelling and how long it persists after rhinoplasty depends on several factors such as the surgeon's technique, open versus closed approach, whether the nasal bones were broken, and the number of prior nasal surgeries.
Patients in whom open rhinoplasty techniques were used, cases in which the nasal bones were broken, and a history of one or more previous nasal surgeries often will have more prolonged swelling.
The nose will look swollen or puffy for sevearl months and it usually takes a full year for the final result be apparent.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

The swelling is temporary and usually takes 6-12 months to recede. There is nothing to do to make it go away faster than more time.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Dear Angel,
How long has it been since your surgery? You may notice some slight swelling that is more pronounced in the am, but this shouldn't be worse than the day you had your dressing removed.
Please visit your surgeon for a thorough examination, and photos. Seeing before and after pictures will demonstrate your progress.
I hope this helps, and best regards.

After getting the splint off, my nose is getting bigger after Rhinoplasty?

Answers (10)

Answer: Yes it will.

Answer: Yes it will.

Answer: Swelling usually improves with time after Rhinoplasty.

Answer: Swelling usually improves with time after Rhinoplasty.

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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After getting the splint off, my nose is getting bigger after Rhinoplasty?

Answers (10)

Answer: Yes it will.

Answer: Yes it will.

Answer: Swelling usually improves with time after Rhinoplasty.

Answer: Swelling usually improves with time after Rhinoplasty.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.