How long does it take for tip swelling to go down after rhinoplasty? (Photos)

Question

I had my closed rhinoplasty done 10 months ago and although i am happy with it my nose is still swollen towards the tip. It is hard still and n indent ok side, do u think the indent is from it still being swollen? Is there anything i can get or do to reduce the swollen or hardness? I got it thinner, my bump removed, tip lifted and shortened and my nostrils smaller. He said it would take a year but idk if i am just a slower healer. Please lmk what u think.

Deepak Raj Dugar, MD · Answer

Hello!After reviewing your pictures, your tip still looks swollen which is normal.It truly takes 1 full year for the entire dorsum (profile) and sidewalls of the nose to fully heal and for all the swelling to dissipate. Rhinoplasty healing is a tedious process because it is one of the only surgeries where we are not removing excess skin. It takes 3 years for the tip to fully heal (only if significant tip work is performed). The tip takes the longest time to heal and mold to the new framework because it is the thickest skin of the nose. The skin over the profile is thinner than the skin over the tip. Patience is required during this healing phase. I would advise to continue icing. Some patients take longer time to heal.

Alexander Zuriarrain, MD, FACS · Answer

Great question! Swelling after rhinoplasty takes up to 1 year to resolve. Most patients are not aware and can be easily frustrated early on in their post-op course.There is nothing you can do to resolve the swelling faster, Your body needs time to heal.All the best,Alex Zuriarrain, MD - Cleveland Clinic Trained Plastic Surgeon

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

It can be frustrating to go through rhinoplastic surgery and still have a “big” nose or asymmetries, but it is not a permanent condition. You need to have patience with your body as it begins to heal. The skin, bone and cartilage are all traumatized during surgery. Inflammation (swelling) is the normal response and will help your nose to heal and look beautiful in the end. If, one year from now, you are unhappy with your nose, then that is the time to think about a revision procedure. Right now, concentrate on other things you like to do and let your nose take its time to heal. I hope this helps.

Ivo Gwanmesia, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Recovery following rhinoplasty is variable. Having said that though, it is generally accepted that 90% of the swelling goes within the first 3 months, with the remainder 10% taking another 9 months, making it a full 12 months before the swelling totally disappears.However, it could take up to 24 months before you get your full and final outcome.Hope that helps.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

The tip is often the last area to soften. It can take a year or longer.  Be patient with the results.

How long does it take for tip swelling to go down after rhinoplasty? (Photos)

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How long does it take for tip swelling to go down after rhinoplasty? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: How long does it take for tip swelling to reduce?

Answer: How long does it take for tip swelling to reduce?

Answer: Tip swelling

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