How Long Does a Rhinoplasty Take To Heal?

Few other procedures can change your facial balance as much as a rhinoplasty. Also called a “nose job,” this procedure shapes and sculpts the nose to produce a more attractive, harmonious appearance. Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular aesthetic procedures, but many people considering rhinoplasty have questions about the recovery process.

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that changes the shape and position of the nasal structures to achieve your desired look. This procedure can correct almost any concern you have about your nose. These may include its size, shape, and unwanted bumps or asymmetry.

Because your nose is the central feature of your face, concerns about its appearance are one of the most common reasons people seek out plastic surgery. Dr. Moskowitz and Dr. Mashkevich have extensive experience in performing complex rhinoplasties.

How Does Rhinoplasty Work?

During a rhinoplasty, your surgeon will use tools to reshape the internal structures of your nose. This allows them to change the shape, smooth away bumps, and correct asymmetric features. Depending on the changes you want to see, they may use an open or closed method.

Open Rhinoplasty

This type of rhinoplasty is usually used for people who want significant rearrangement of the nose shape. The surgeon uses a small, hidden incision between the nostrils to lift the skin, giving them deep access to your nasal structures. The scar will become nearly invisible when healed.

Closed Rhinoplasty

More minor procedures can be performed using a closed rhinoplasty. Your surgeon will use incisions inside the nostrils, making them impossible to see. This procedure is used for the majority of rhinoplasties. Your surgeon will determine which method will let them achieve the best results.

How Long Does a Rhinoplasty Take to Heal?

Each person’s rhinoplasty is unique, and so is their healing process. Your recovery will depend on factors including:

The complexity of your procedure
Your health before surgery
How well you follow recovery instructions
Your unique healing response

You can expect some bruising and swelling after your procedure. We recommend taking seven to ten days to recover before returning to work and other activities. If you have a physically active job, you may need more recovery time before returning.

Do I Need a Functional or Cosmetic Rhinoplasty?

Most rhinoplasties are performed for cosmetic purposes, but many people also have the procedure to correct a problem or injury.

Cosmetic Rhinoplasty

A cosmetic rhinoplasty is performed to improve the appearance of your nose. Cosmetic rhinoplasty can dramatically improve your confidence. It can also correct aesthetic problems such as asymmetry. Insurance does not cover this type of rhinoplasty.

Functional Rhinoplasty

Functional rhinoplasty is performed if you have had an injury to your nose or have problems with its function. It can improve your breathing by correcting conditions like a deviated septum. Functional rhinoplasty is often covered by insurance.

What Can a Rhinoplasty Treat?

You may want a rhinoplasty for many reasons. Whether your concerns include symmetry, shape, or size, rhinoplasty can give you the more pleasing nose you want to see. Rhinoplasty can improve the appearance of:

Overall size or shape
Width of the bridge
Bumps or humps
Asymmetry
Nostril shape
Nose width
Nose tip shape
Nose tip position

Anyone dissatisfied with the appearance of their nose might benefit from rhinoplasty. Only a consultation with our surgeons can determine whether it can provide your desired results.

Rhinoplasty vs. Liquid Rhinoplasty: What are the Differences?

Surgical rhinoplasty is not your only option for changing the appearance of your nose. We also offer a liquid rhinoplasty using dermal fillers. A liquid rhinoplasty makes an excellent option if you are not ready for a surgical procedure.

It provides subtle, natural-looking correction for minor shape issues or asymmetry. Dermal filler results can last a year or more. We can discuss this option during your consultation if it interests you.

What Can I Expect After Rhinoplasty?

The results of your rhinoplasty take time to develop. Most of your swelling will resolve during the first two weeks. Most people feel comfortable with their appearance by this point and can appreciate their results.

However, you can expect continued improvement for up to a year as residual swelling resolves and your nasal structures settle into their new position. People who have rhinoplasty report feeling more confident and happier with their overall facial appearance.

Am I a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

You might be a good candidate for rhinoplasty if you want to change the appearance of your nose. Other candidates may have breathing problems or a nose injury. Ideal candidates are in good health and have reasonable expectations. Only your surgeon can determine whether you are a good candidate.

Take the Next Step – Request a Consultation

Want to learn more about rhinoplasty? Schedule your consultation or by calling Specialty Aesthetic Surgery at (212) 737-8700. We look forward to working with you!

Specialty Aesthetic Surgery serves the greater NYC metro area.

About our Surgeons

Bruce Moskowitz is an experienced and board-certified oculoplastic surgeon. His practice encompasses all areas of oculoplastic cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. He has a well-known reputation for revision surgery, and a large portion of his practice comes from other colleagues to revise sub-optimal outcomes.

Grigoriy Mashkevich is an experienced and double-board certified facial plastic surgeon. He belongs to a highly select group of surgeons with a focused specialization in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the nose, face, and neck.

*Individual results may vary.

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