Swelling is a natural part of the healing process after rhinoplasty, and it can take months to subside fully. Proper aftercare, including the use of tape, icing, and avoiding certain activities, is essential for minimizing swelling and ensuring a smooth recovery. Patience is key, as final results may take up to a year to appear.
Swelling occurs after rhinoplasty due to tissue fluid (oedema) building up in the soft tissue of the nose following surgery. Although a significant portion of the swelling subsides around the 3-month mark, the nasal tip may remain swollen for over a year.
Dr. Onur Gilleard, Rhinoplasty Specialist
Specialising exclusively in Rhinoplasty and nasal reconstruction, Onur Gilleard is a keen believer in attaining natural, long lasting, beautiful results. He is also one of the only surgeons in the UK specialising in using the Piezotome (Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty).
If excessive swelling persists for too long, scar tissue may develop beneath the skin, preventing the skin from conforming to the new shape of the cartilage. This can result in issues like lack of nasal tip definition, poly-beak deformity, nasal tip deviation, and asymmetry.
To mitigate these risks, taping and steroid injections are recommended. Taping compresses any dead space between the skin and the reshaped bone and cartilage, reducing the risk of scar tissue formation.
Though it may feel inconvenient, consistently wearing the tape in the first month after surgery will be worth it in the long run.
How to Reduce Swelling After Rhinoplasty
Although swelling cannot be completely avoided, several strategies can help minimize it:
Applying tape as shown during your follow-up appointment.
Icing the area to reduce initial swelling and improve comfort.
Sleeping with your head elevated, such as by using cushions or resting in a recliner.
Reducing salt intake to minimize fluid retention.
Important Post Op Tip
Avoid exercise and excessive alcohol consumption in the month following surgery. Both activities can increase swelling and promote the formation of permanent scar tissue. Proper aftercare during this time will help ensure the best possible results.
Aftercare
Aftercare is as crucial as the surgery itself. Caring for your nose properly ensures that it heals as expected. Follow-up appointments are essential to check that everything is progressing correctly and to address any concerns.
Patience is necessary, as the final results of rhinoplasty may take up to a year to appear. Within the first month, you will start to see the new shape of your nose, but some irregularities are normal during the healing process. Stay patient, and you'll be able to enjoy the results soon enough.
How long does swelling last after rhinoplasty? Initial swelling decreases within 3 months, but the nasal tip may remain swollen for over a year.
Is taping necessary after rhinoplasty? Yes, taping helps compress any dead space and prevents scar tissue from forming, aiding in proper healing.
When can I exercise again after rhinoplasty? Exercise should be avoided for at least one month to prevent swelling and scar tissue formation.
How soon can I see the results of my rhinoplasty? Initial results become visible within the first few weeks, but final results can take up to a year to fully appear.
Contact us
We understand that it can feel like a big step deciding to book a consultation and start your journey. The team at New You are here to help you towards becoming your most confident self. You will most likely speak to Jayne, our founder and practice manager, who will be able to advise you the best course of action and organise your consultation if you feel ready.
Rhinoplasty recovery follows a predictable yet highly individual timeline that extends well beyond the initial healing phase. During the first week post-surgery, patients typically experience significant swelling, bruising, and discomfort. By the end of the first month, while external splints and stitches have been removed, internal healing is only beginning. At 2 months post rhinoplasty, patients often feel their nose looks acceptable for social situations, though substantial internal healing continues. The 3-month mark represents an important milestone in rhinoplasty recovery, but it's crucial to understand that your nose is still very much in a transitional state. At this stage, approximately 60-70% of swelling has typically resolved, particularly in the bridge area. However, the nasal tip—which contains more sebaceous glands and thicker skin—retains significant swelling that can mask the final result. Many patients experience fluctuating swelling at this stage, with some days looking better than others. This is entirely normal and often relates to factors such as sodium intake, physical activity, and sleep position. While your nose may appear dramatically improved from your pre-surgical appearance, the refinement process continues internally as tissues remodel and adapt to their new structure.
While technically possible, revision rhinoplasty is generally not recommended at the 6-month mark as your nose is still actively healing. Most UK specialists advise waiting 12-18 months after primary rhinoplasty to allow complete resolution of swelling (70-80% subsides by 6 months, but the remaining 20-30% takes longer). Revision procedures carry higher risks than primary rhinoplasty and typically cost £7,000-£15,000 in London. For optimal results, choose a surgeon specializing specifically in revision cases, set realistic expectations, and understand that improvements rather than perfection should be the goal, particularly for complex revisions.
Closed MicroSculpt rhinoplasty represents a significant advancement in nose surgery, particularly in Turkey's leading medical facilities. This innovative technique allows surgeons to reshape the nose without external incisions, resulting in minimal scarring and reduced recovery time. The procedure utilises advanced microsurgical instruments to make precise modifications through the nostrils, preserving the nose's natural structure whilst achieving desired aesthetic improvements. The technique is particularly suitable for patients seeking subtle refinements to their nasal profile, tip definition, or bridge height. Unlike traditional rhinoplasty methods, closed MicroSculpt emphasises preservation of the nose's structural integrity, leading to more natural-looking results and reduced post-operative complications.
