I have severe swelling after Rhinoplasty, what timing indicators are there for swelling to subside?

Question

I had a open rhinoplasty two weeks ago. My cast/splint was removed a week ago, and upon doing so, I came to find my nose was severely swollen and oily. I have thick skin and my nose feels numb and 'spongy', particularly at the tip. I wanted to know how long it will take for swelling for cases like mine to subside? Is there any measures/protocols I can follow to aid the reduction in swelling? many thanks for all advice.

Guy Watts, MBBS (Hons), FRACS (Plast) · Answer

The swelling after rhinoplasty is very variable. The thicker and more sebaceous the skin type the longer the swelling will take to resolve. 12-18 months is not unexpected. Head elevation and minimizing salt and alcohol intake can assist during the early post operative stages. RegardsDr Guy Watts

Marc Pacifico, MD, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Dear AliMany thanks for posting your question.I actually tell my patients that it takes up to a year for the swelling to completely resolve after an open septorhinoplasty. However the most noticeable swelling resolves within the first 6-weeks.If you have thick and oily skin, it is likely that your nose will feel and look very swollen initially. Taping of your nose at night might help the swelling to resolve more quickly - perhaps discuss this with your surgeon.Good luck - but I suspect all will be fine in the end!

David Saadat, MD · Answer

The swelling is significant the first week with about 60% of
the swelling subsiding after the first week. The second and third week there
will be another 10-20% decrease in swelling.First two months 80% of the swelling should be gone. And in one year
majority of swelling is gone.Most
rhinoplasty surgeons consider resolution of swelling within a year. In
addition, the tip of the nose stays swollen longer than the rest of the
nose.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

It takes weeks to months for all the swelling to subside following Rhinoplasty surgery.  What you have described is common.  Continue following up with your surgeon as he will guide you in your recovery.  Best wishes!

I have severe swelling after Rhinoplasty, what timing indicators are there for swelling to subside?

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Answer: Swelling and Rhinoplasty

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I have severe swelling after Rhinoplasty, what timing indicators are there for swelling to subside?

Answers (4)

Answer: Swelling and Rhinoplasty

Answer: Swelling and Rhinoplasty

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