After rhinoplasty: recovery in the first 7, 14 and 30 days

There are two main approaches. In closed rhinoplasty all incisions are inside the nostrils, so there are no visible scars. In open rhinoplasty the surgeon adds a small incision across the columella, the strip of skin between the nostrils, which gives a better view of the nasal structures in complex cases. Depending on the goal, the operation can be aesthetic, functional (septorhinoplasty, which corrects a deviated septum or the effects of an injury) or both. The approach affects how recovery goes, which is why your own surgeon's plan always takes priority over any general timeline.

• use cold compresses in the first days, as advised, to reduce bruising and swelling;
• care for any stitches exactly as instructed, using only the antiseptics prescribed;
• avoid physical exertion, bending and lifting, which raise blood pressure and can cause bleeding;
• do not wear glasses resting on the bridge of the nose, as pressure can affect its shape;
• eat soft, lukewarm food to limit facial movement;
• avoid hot baths, saunas and steam rooms, since heat increases blood flow and swelling.

Days 4 to 7

Packing, if used, is usually removed within the first few days, and the external splint or cast is typically taken off around the end of the first week, depending on the surgeon's protocol. This is a noticeable relief, although the nose is still very swollen. The doctor examines you and gives the next instructions. The nose and surrounding skin need gentle handling, and physical activity is still not allowed.

This first week is the hardest part of recovery. The discomfort can be significant, but it is a normal part of healing, and following the regime carefully now lays the groundwork for everything that follows.

• swelling becomes less noticeable to others, but numbness and tightness are still common;
• the doctor may allow gentle face washing and moisturisers;
• nasal breathing usually improves, although some stuffiness can persist while internal swelling settles.

Psychologically this is an important point: the hardest days are behind you, and the first outline of the new nose starts to show. Patience still matters, because healing continues gradually.

• Swelling often remains at the tip, especially after complex work on the cartilage.
• Light activity such as walking or gentle yoga can usually be resumed, after checking with your surgeon.
• You should still avoid knocks to the nose, not press or massage it unless advised, and keep sleeping on your back.
• Towards the end of the first month the doctor often allows light glasses for short periods.

Internal tissues are still healing, and refinement continues over the following months. Keep following your surgeon's advice even when you feel fully recovered.

• breathing difficulty that persists after swelling has gone down.

If you notice any worrying symptom, contact your surgeon straight away rather than waiting for the next check-up.

Use ointments for bruising and swelling only as prescribed; some clinics also offer physiotherapy methods where appropriate.

Recovery can be divided into phases: early (days 0 to 7), with the strictest regime and most swelling; intermediate (days 7 to 30), when the splint and stitches come out and social life resumes; late (1 to 6 months), when visible swelling disappears and the shape settles; and final (up to about a year), when healing completes. The final result is usually assessed after 8 to 12 months. If the shape clearly differs from what was planned, there is marked asymmetry or breathing remains difficult after all swelling has gone, discuss it with your surgeon; revision surgery is more complex and is generally not considered until about a year after the first operation. More about the procedure is on our rhinoplasty page.