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.
Revision rhinoplasty, also known as secondary rhinoplasty, is a corrective surgical procedure performed to address issues that persist or arise following an initial nose job. For many patients in London and across the UK, the decision to undergo a second nose surgery isn't taken lightly. Approximately 5-10% of primary rhinoplasty patients eventually seek revision procedures, highlighting the complex nature of nasal surgery. Revision rhinoplasty is typically more challenging than primary procedures due to altered anatomy, scar tissue, and potentially compromised structural support. The procedure requires advanced surgical techniques to address both aesthetic concerns and functional issues that may have developed or persisted after the first surgery. Common scenarios warranting revision include asymmetry, over-resection of nasal structures, persistent breathing difficulties, or simply results that don't align with the patient's expectations. The timing of revision surgery is crucial—most surgeons recommend waiting at least 12 months after the initial procedure to allow for complete healing and resolution of swelling before considering secondary intervention. It's worth noting that revision rhinoplasty often requires more extensive planning, including detailed imaging, comprehensive consultations, and sometimes the harvesting of additional cartilage grafts from areas like the ear or rib to rebuild nasal structures. This makes selecting a surgeon with specific expertise in revision cases particularly important for patients considering this path.
Turkey has emerged as a premier destination for rhinoplasty procedures, attracting patients from across the globe seeking high-quality nasal surgery at competitive prices. This remarkable rise to prominence in the aesthetic surgery world isn't coincidental but rather the result of several converging factors. Firstly, Turkey boasts a rich heritage in plastic surgery, particularly rhinoplasty, with surgical techniques that have evolved over decades to address diverse nasal structures and aesthetic preferences. The country's strategic location bridging Europe and Asia has contributed to the development of unique surgical approaches that harmoniously blend Eastern and Western aesthetic ideals. The Turkish medical education system produces exceptionally skilled surgeons who frequently pursue additional training internationally before returning to establish practices in their homeland. This combination of rigorous domestic training and international exposure creates surgeons with comprehensive skill sets and global perspectives on facial aesthetics. Furthermore, significant government investment in healthcare infrastructure has resulted in state-of-the-art facilities that meet or exceed international standards. Many Turkish clinics are accredited by prestigious organisations such as JCI (Joint Commission International), ensuring adherence to stringent quality and safety protocols. The economic advantage cannot be overlooked—the favourable exchange rate and lower operating costs allow Turkish surgeons to offer world-class rhinoplasty procedures at a fraction of the cost found in Western Europe, North America, or Australia, without compromising on quality or safety.
Revision rhinoplasty, also known as secondary rhinoplasty, is a corrective surgical procedure performed to address unsatisfactory results from a previous nose job. For many patients in London and across the UK, the decision to undergo revision rhinoplasty comes after experiencing functional issues, aesthetic concerns, or both following their primary procedure. Common reasons for seeking revision rhinoplasty include breathing difficulties, asymmetry, collapsed nasal structures, or simply dissatisfaction with the cosmetic outcome. Unlike primary rhinoplasty, revision procedures are inherently more complex due to altered nasal anatomy, scar tissue, and potential structural weaknesses from the previous surgery. The complexity increases with each subsequent procedure, making it crucial to select a highly specialised surgeon for revision work. Approximately 5-10% of rhinoplasty patients seek revision surgery, highlighting the technical challenges of primary rhinoplasty. Timing is essential when considering revision rhinoplasty. Most specialists recommend waiting at least 12 months after the initial procedure to allow for complete healing and resolution of swelling. This waiting period ensures that the surgeon can accurately assess the final result and develop an appropriate surgical plan for revision. Patients experiencing severe functional issues such as nasal obstruction may be candidates for earlier intervention, but this is evaluated on a case-by-case basis by experienced revision rhinoplasty surgeons.
