5 Weeks Post Open Rhinoplasty and my Nose Still Looks Huge in Pictures

Hi anon,

The nose is swollen for a long time after rhinoplasty.  Depending on the type of rhinoplasty performed and what was performed, it may take 12-18 months for the swelling to resolve.  Now, having said that, the nose will shrink down a lot over the first three months and you should begin to have an idea of the final result by 3-6 months.  Try to be patient.  The waiting can be really tough at this point!

Good luck!

Nasal swelling after external rhinoplasty can persist for 12 months. Your graduation in Dec 2011 should take place around the time that most of your swelling has resolved. Your concerns are very common at this point in your post-operative recovery. While it's easier said than done, please be patient - the swelling will continue to improve.
Best,Stephen Weber MD, FACS

There are many aspects of a rhinoplasty procedure that may cause a nose to have persistent swelling including skin type, length of the procedure, approach (open>closed), grafts, post-operative positioning, etc. Swelling is common for 6 months and we avoid pictures during this time. Manual lymphatic drainage may help if permitted by your surgeon