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What is Recovery Like After a Rhinoplasty?

Your nose is one of the most prominent features of the face. If it is crooked, too big, or too small, often it can cause deep insecurities. For over 20 years, Dr. Scott Holley has performed rhinoplasty surgery for men and women in the Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids area.

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, restructures the nose for cosmetic or medical purposes. Sometimes a patient is unhappy with the shape of their nose, and this surgery restores symmetry and proportion to their face. Others get a rhinoplasty to improve breathing and sinuses from a congenital disability or injury. In both cases, the restructuring of the nose leaves them happier and boosts their confidence as they embrace their new look.

Real Results

*Individual Results May Vary

Rhinoplasty Recovery Tips

After nose surgery, your nose may feel stuffy and sore for the first few days. Dr. Holley will place a splint in your nose and bandages to protect your nose’s new shape. Most swelling resolves within three weeks, but most patients return to work within a week or two.

It is best to avoid most physical activity until Dr. Holley has determined you’ve healed enough. Dr. Holley will provide a detailed recovery plan after the rhinoplasty surgery; however, there are some general rules to follow:

Do Not Lay Flat on Your Back

It is best to rest or sleep with your head elevated above your heart to prevent blood flow to the face. Increased blood flow may worsen the swelling or cause bleeding.

Avoid Blowing Your Nose

Blowing your nose can disrupt the healing process. Dr. Holley suggests avoiding getting the cold, flu, or anything that could give you a stuffy nose.

Do Not Go Into Direct Sunlight

UV rays can cause your healing incisions to darken or cause uneven pigmentation.

Do Not Smoke or Drink Alcohol

Smoking can restrict blood flow and hinder the healing process. You will be asked to quit smoking before and after the surgery. Alcohol can also thin the blood and put you at a higher risk of bleeding during recovery.

Do Not Apply Makeup

Makeup or other cosmetics could irritate or cause an infection while your nose heals. Please avoid wearing makeup until Dr. Holley gives his approval.

Consultations Available Now

Take the first step. Get your questions answered by meeting with one of our knowledgeable medical staff for an in-person consultation. Simply fill out the form on this page, and one of our experienced team members will reach out to you promptly to schedule your consultation.

About Your Rhinoplasty Results

Results begin to appear in a few weeks as the swelling fades. You’ll see gradual results as your nose heals, but final results can take up to a year. Rhinoplasty can correct asymmetry, and malformed nasal tips, enhance facial balance and address your bridge’s width, humps, and depressions. After surgery, your nose will be more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing while remaining unique to you.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

Dr. Holley was very attentive to my concerns. His approach showed how much he cared about my outcome and my comfort. He has a fabulous staff who I look forward to seeing during my office calls.*

Dr. Holley is an amazing surgeon! I could not be more pleased with my surgery. Dr. Holley did an amazing job and I would highly recommend him to everyone. Dr. Holley is very caring, supportive, has excellent bedside manners, and just an all around awesome physician.*

I felt like Dr. Holley listened to me. I had heard many great things about Dr. Holley that had to do with plastic surgery for many due to accidents and dog bites. His staff made me feel comfortable.*

Take the Next Step

Would you like to learn more about rhinoplasty? Simply fill out the form on this page or call West Michigan Plastic Surgery at (269) 222-1611 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Scott Holley, a Board-Certified plastic surgeon. Proudly serving Kalamazoo and the greater Southwest Michigan area.