What to Expect After Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Do you feel like every time you make a first impression, people immediately notice your nose? A nose that has an unusual shape or does not match your features can affect your confidence when interacting with others, making rhinoplasty surgery one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures. What to expect after surgery is an important question that your surgeon will discuss in detail. 

*Individual Results May Vary

What is Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Rhinoplasty surgery or nose surgery corrects your concerns with the appearance or function of your nose. People often have rhinoplasty to address:

• Nose size
• Bridge width
• Tip size and width
• Asymmetry
• Deviated septum
• Other aesthetic or functional concerns

Rhinoplasty surgery is performed using small incisions inside the nose (closed rhinoplasty) or a small incision between the nostrils (open rhinoplasty). Dr. Rankin will assess your needs and determine the best procedure for you. 

What to Expect After Rhinoplasty Surgery

Many factors affect what you experience after your nose surgery. Each procedure is different, and each person’s body recovers differently. However, most people find that their experience follows this general timeline. 

Recovery After Nose Surgery

Bruising, swelling, and discomfort are common after surgery, and you will have splints on and inside your nose to support it. These will be removed, along with your sutures, after a week. Most people return to work within one to two weeks, although you might need more time if your job requires physical activity. 

You will have several follow-up visits so Dr. Rankin can ensure your healing is progressing well. He will usually clear you to return to your exercise routine and other activities after four to six weeks. However, you should avoid injury to your nose regardless of your activities. 

Rhinoplasty Results

You will see the changes to your nose as soon as Dr. Rankin removes your splints. However, your nose and the area under your eyes will still have some swelling. Most of this swelling resolves within a few weeks, but you will continue to see improvements up to a year after your rhinoplasty surgery. The changes to your nose’s shape and structure will last a lifetime.

Am I a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Dr. Rakin will assess many factors to help him determine whether rhinoplasty surgery is the right choice for you. Individuals considering rhinoplasty:

• Should be in good overall health
• Must have a nasal structure that has finished developing (usually 15 to 16 years old)
• Should have realistic expectations

Dr. Rankin performs several specialized types of nose surgery, including reconstructive procedures after skin cancer removal or revisions of unsatisfactory results. He also performs ethnic rhinoplasty that respects and highlights the unique beauty of your nose while correcting your concerns.

Next Step

If you are interested in what happens after rhinoplasty surgery, please reach out to our qualified staff to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient locations in Walnut Creek and Tiburon. Give us a call at (925) 397-5486 or fill out our online form. Helping you achieve your cosmetic goals is an honor and a privilege at NorCal Plastic Surgery, proudly serving the East Bay, Marin County, and the greater San Francisco Bay Area. We look forward to hearing from you.