How Long Does Swelling Last After Rhinoplasty?

A patient asked about the recovery from rhinoplasty; she writes “I had Rhinoplasty surgery 3 weeks ago and my nose is still swollen. Is it normal for swelling to persist that long?”

Yes.  It can be difficult for your body to ease swelling around the nose.  After about 2 weeks, people you don’t know won’t even notice the swelling.  Those who see you daily may notice it 3 weeks after surgery (depending on how well they know your nose). Most people won’t examine your nose that closely and therefore, won’t understand why you look different.  They might think you’re just well rested, or perhaps that you’ve changed your hairstyle.  

You will likely notice it and feel it for about 3-6 months from surgery.  Rhinoplasty changes your nose quickly at first as most of the swelling goes away, and then it changes little by little throughout the healing process.