How Long is Recovery from a Rhinoplasty?

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty often called a “nose job,” reshapes the nose to give it a more pleasing appearance. Surgeons can also perform rhinoplasty to correct physical problems with the nose that affect breathing. Rhinoplasty can be performed with a closed technique, with all incisions inside the nose, or an open technique with one small incision in the cartilage between the nostrils. 

How Does Rhinoplasty Work?

Dr. Holley will develop a comprehensive plan to sculpt your desired nose. This may include manipulating the cartilage to remove a hump or shape the tip of the nose. Major reshaping may involve the nasal bones. Your procedure can also change the size and shape of your nostrils. 

How Long is Recovery From Rhinoplasty?

You will have a splint placed on your nose immediately after surgery to support it while it heals. This stays on for about a week. Swelling will look intense during the first few weeks and then subside over the next following months. It may take six months or more for swelling to go away and your nose to settle into its new shape. 

What is Functional and Cosmetic Rhinoplasty?

Some people seek out a rhinoplasty because they feel unhappy with the appearance of their nose. Others choose rhinoplasty because they want to improve how their nose works. 

Cosmetic Rhinoplasty

Dr. Holley performs cosmetic rhinoplasty to improve your nose’s size, shape, or appearance. While this surgery is considered cosmetic, the improvements in self-esteem and quality of life cannot be measured. 

Functional Rhinoplasty

A functional rhinoplasty corrects problems with breathing or other physical issues with the nose. Some people have not been bothered enough by their breathing problems to have surgery for them but choose to have them corrected during a cosmetic rhinoplasty.