Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery) Recovery
Before undergoing rhinoplasty (also called a "nose job"), our Toronto patients find it helpful to get an idea of what to expect during their recovery. This information is provided to assist you in establishing expectations and scheduling time off from work, school, or other obligations.
To learn more about rhinoplasty, request a consultation with Dr. Rival online or call us toll-free at 1-866-229-FACE. Women and men from Toronto and throughout Canada choose Dr. Rival because of his expertise in primary and revision rhinoplasty. Visit his specialty rhinoplasty Web site at www.rhinoplastytoronto.ca for more detailed information on this procedure.
Meet
Dr. Rival
Board-certified in Facial Plastic Surgery and Otolaryngology, Dr. Rival devotes his practice exclusively to enhancement of the face and neck, with a focused specialty in rhinoplasty.
First Week
Most patients experience only minimal discomfort after their nose surgery in Toronto. After surgery, you will probably have a nasal splint on the outside of the nose to protect it and help maintain its enhanced shape. You might also have tiny stitches under your nose. Dr. Rival rarely uses nasal packing, which most patients find uncomfortable. Instead, he uses advanced surgical techniques to control initial bleeding, making nasal packing unnecessary. The splint and stitches are removed within 5 to 7 days.
You can facilitate your recovery by closely following Dr. Rival's post-operative instructions, which will likely include:
- Resting as much as possible for the first 24 hours
- Applying cold compresses for the first 2 to 3 days
- Sleeping with your head elevated
- Remaining upright and avoiding bending over
Most patients have some bruising and swelling around their eyes and on their nose that increases for the first 2 to 3 days after surgery and then gradually fades. You can use camouflage makeup to conceal the bruising after 5 days. At the end of the first week, it's likely that you will feel well enough to go out in public.
First Few Months
While the bruising usually disappears within 2 weeks, swelling of the nose can take longer to resolve. Depending on your occupation, most patients are able to return to work within 1 to 2 weeks. You will be able to resume most types of exercise after 2 weeks. Sports or activities where facial injury is possible are best avoided for 6 weeks after surgery. You will need to wear sunscreen consistently for several months as the skin is likely to be especially sensitive while it heals.
Beyond
The appearance of your nose will gradually improve over the months after surgery as the swelling continues to diminish. While you will likely appreciate your improvements within the first week of surgery, your ultimate result can take from 6 months up to 2 years to be achieved. Most patients are amazed at how significantly changing this one feature can improve their appearance and enhance their self-confidence.
