After rhinoplasty, most people have their splint removed at about one week, return to work at around two weeks, and resume contact sports only after about six weeks or more. Most swelling settles within a few months, but the nose continues to refine for 12 months or longer. Recovery varies, so always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions.
The first 48 hours
Rhinoplasty is performed under general anaesthetic, usually as a day case or with one night in hospital. You will wake with a splint on your nose and sometimes soft internal splints or packing. Your nose will feel blocked, and you will need to breathe through your mouth, which can make your throat and lips dry. Some blood-stained oozing is normal and a small gauze pad under the nose can help. Rest with your head raised, avoid blowing your nose, and sneeze with your mouth open.
Week 1
Swelling and bruising around the eyes and cheeks usually peak around days two to three. The nose feels congested, and a saline spray may be recommended once your surgeon advises. Avoid bending, straining, very hot drinks and anything that raises blood pressure. The external splint and any stitches are usually removed at around seven days, when you will see the nose for the first time. It will look swollen and may seem upturned or wide at this stage.
Weeks 2–3
Most bruising fades and many people return to work or study at around two weeks. The nose may still feel stiff, numb at the tip and blocked at times. Avoid knocks to the nose and do not rest glasses on the bridge; tape them to your forehead or use contact lenses if possible.
Weeks 4–6
Breathing usually improves as internal swelling settles. Light exercise can be gradually reintroduced. The nose remains delicate, so contact sports, ball sports and activities with a risk of impact should be avoided.
3 months and beyond
Much of the visible swelling has gone by three months, but the tip in particular can stay swollen for 12 months or longer, especially in people with thicker skin or after revision surgery. The nose may look slightly different from day to day as it settles. The final result is usually assessed at around 12 months.
Returning to work, driving, exercise and flying
- Work: often possible at around two weeks, once bruising has faded.
- Driving: usually after around one week, once you are off strong pain relief and bruising does not affect your vision.
- Exercise: walking from day one; light exercise from around three to four weeks; contact sports only after at least six weeks, and often longer.
- Glasses: avoid resting glasses on the nose for around four to six weeks.
- Flying: usually avoided for at least one to two weeks, as pressure changes can be uncomfortable and increase bleeding risk.
Garments, dressings and sleeping position
The external splint is kept dry and left in place until it is removed at clinic. Keep your head raised on two or three pillows for at least the first two weeks, and sleep on your back to avoid pressure on the nose. Clean around the nostrils gently as instructed. Avoid swimming until your surgeon advises.
Warning signs – when to call the clinic or seek urgent care
- Call 999: difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden breathlessness or collapse.
- Contact the clinic urgently, or A&E out of hours: a nosebleed that is heavy or does not stop after 15–20 minutes of sitting upright and leaning forward; or a clear, watery discharge from the nose that is persistent.
- Contact the clinic the same day: fever, increasing pain, swelling or redness of the nose, foul-smelling discharge, or a painful swelling inside the nostril.
- Mention at your review: persistent blockage on one side or anything that worries you about the shape.
Tips for a smoother recovery
- Keep your head up: sleeping raised helps swelling settle.
- Do not blow your nose: wait until your surgeon says it is safe, and sneeze with your mouth open.
- Protect your nose: avoid crowds, pets jumping up and small children climbing on you in the early weeks.
- Use lip balm and water: mouth breathing can cause dry lips and throat.
- Be patient: nasal swelling takes many months to settle fully.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the splint removed after rhinoplasty?
The external splint is usually removed at around seven days, along with any external stitches.
How long does it take to breathe normally after rhinoplasty?
Breathing usually improves over the first few weeks as internal swelling settles, though some congestion can come and go for a few months.
Why does my nose tip still look swollen months later?
The nasal tip is often the last area to settle and can take 12 months or longer, particularly with thicker skin.
When can I wear glasses after nose surgery?
Most surgeons advise not resting glasses on the nose for around four to six weeks. Taping them to your forehead or using contact lenses can help.
Who can have rhinoplasty?
Cosmetic rhinoplasty is for adults aged 18 and over, once the nose has finished growing. Mr Nassab will discuss realistic goals and any breathing concerns at consultation.
