Good things take time. We recognize that when you invest in a rhinoplasty, you’re ready to invest in yourself. Looking and feeling your best are both essential to living your best.
That’s why it’s important to closely follow your surgeon’s post-operative directions, safely streamlining the healing process and maximizing your results and investment. So, how long does it take to recover from rhinoplasty surgery?
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery’s team of top nose surgeons in NYC is here to break down the process. Keep in mind that these steps may vary based on the kind of rhinoplasty you opt for, but Dr. Pearlman will provide detailed instructions based on his 30 years of experience.
→ Surgical Techniques: Open vs Closed Rhinoplasty
Week 1 Post-Rhinoplasty
Immediately after your surgery, it’s important to prioritize rest. We’ll give you a recovery tool kit before you leave, but remember to ice your face and keep your head elevated as much as possible for the next 2 days to minimize swelling.
Get the Full Rhinoplasty Recovery Guide
While bruising and sensitivity will peak during this phase, most of our patients get the relief they need from over-the-counter pain medications like Tylenol. You can expect to return to work about one and a half weeks after surgery, unless you want to go back wearing a small nasal cast.
A week after your rhinoplasty, you’ll come in for your follow-up. Here, we’ll remove your cast and any external sutures, and you’ll start feeling back to normal.
Week 2 Post-Rhinoplasty
So, how long does it take to recover from a rhinoplasty after your cast is off? You can expect to see about 85% of your results within the next 2 weeks, but complete healing—and results—will take about a year (yes, even when you go to the top-rated surgeon).
Most of your swelling and bruising should subside this week, but you’re free to use makeup to even out any discoloration. Remember, this is when sticking to gentle skincare products, like SkinBetter Science’s Cleansing Gel and ISDIN’s Ultralight Mineral Sunscreen, as directed is key.
Week 3 Post-Rhinoplasty
Now, you can return to your usual routine, including exercising. However, we recommend limiting outdoor activities like pickleball or volleyball that could lead to injuring your nose.
Week 4 Post-Rhinoplasty
Next, we’ll schedule your second follow-up appointment—2 months post-op. Then, we’ll invite you back in 6 months and, finally, a year to take your “after” photos once you’ve fully recovered.
Work With Surgeons Invested In Your Success
When it comes to changing the features that make you who you are, you need to work with experts. As a top rhinoplasty surgeon in NYC, Dr. Pearlman has performed over 7,500 rhinoplasties—transforming patients’ lives, not just their noses—and our work’s far from finished.
Now that we’ve answered your question—how long does it take to recover from rhinoplasty surgery?—you can start planning your surgery with our virtual rhinoplasty tool! Still have questions about our approach and what to expect? Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here for you.
Virtual Rhinoplasty Consultation
As the go-to for facial surgery in NYC, Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery does so much more than rhinoplasties. Explore our blog to learn more about enhancing your beauty with a rhytidectomy in NYC (a facelift) and our other surgical and non-surgical solutions.
