When Does Swelling Go Down After A Toronto Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty can yield dramatic results, since changing the size and/or shape of the nose can greatly improve the balance and symmetry of the face. Although patients who chose to undergo a nose job are often anxious to see their results, it is important to be aware that due to the swelling which accompanies rhinoplasty, significant improvement may be evident in as little as 4-6 weeks, but the final outcome of the procedure may not be visible for up to one year. As a result, patience is required when recovering from a Toronto rhinoplasty.

1-2 Weeks

During the first week post-operatively, patients should expect to experience moderate to severe swelling. Although patients may feel well enough to return to work within a few days following rhinoplasty surgery, the splint must remain in place for approximately seven to ten days during which time the nose will remain noticeably swollen. Immediately after the splint is removed, the swelling typically dissipates considerably, as the splint holds the swelling down.

However, within a day or two, the swelling may return, as the splint is no longer there to compress the soft tissues. Although many patients are comfortable going out in public at this time, as the swelling will not be noticeable to strangers, it may still be evident to those who know you well. Thus, it is advisable to schedule two weeks off from work and other responsibilities if you want to ensure that your procedure is undetected by your friends and colleagues since approximately 50% of the swelling is still present at this time.

4-6 Weeks

Approximately four to six weeks following a Toronto rhinoplasty, 75% of the swelling will have resolved and you will begin to see the results of the procedure. Although the nose will begin to appear more refined at this time, it will still be puffy as a result of residual swelling, which will continue to persist for several months.

However, this swelling will be extremely subtle and is generally only visible to the patient. It is also important to recognize that the swelling may fluctuate from day to day before the nose settles, which means that it will appear more swollen some days than others.

4 Months

After approximately four months, the vast majority of the swelling will subside and the nose will appear much more refined. However, as a result of the effects of gravity, swelling tends to dissipate faster in the upper third of the nose than in the middle or lower third of the nose. This means that your nose may temporarily appear asymmetrical; however, it is crucial not to judge the outcome until the remaining swelling has subsided.

9-12 Months

The final 25% of swelling may take up to one year to resolve, however, this residual swelling will be very subtle. Swelling is typically most persistent in areas with thicker skin such as the tip, alar rims, and radix. After 12-18 months, the final results should be evident and the vast majority of patients find that the outcome of their Toronto Rhinoplasty was well worth the wait.