The length of time that bruising and swelling lasts after a nose job varies. Since rhinoplasty involves cutting inside the nose to adjust its infrastructure, it causes minor trauma. This trauma is what causes bruising and swelling. To create a smaller and more defined nose, we cut the cartilages and sometimes some bone, and in some cases we remove bone or cartilage. The technique we use depends on whether we are getting rid of a bump, narrowing the nose, shortening the nose, raising the bridge, or many other options, and all of this determines the amount of bruising or swelling.
How bad is bruising after a nose job?
The extent of bruising after a nose job depends on what was done to the nose and whether the patient bruises easily. We can control some of it pre-surgery by advising patients to avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, and anything that thins the blood, which includes supplements like fish oil. We also advise ceasing the use of alcohol before surgery. All of these substances can cause excessive bruising.
How do you get rid of bruising after rhinoplasty?
To get rid of bruising after rhinoplasty I advise icing the nose, cheeks, and forehead in addition to using compression. Quite typically, bruising lasts for a week to 10 days with a very small amount of it lasting one and a half to two weeks, but most of it is gone in a week.
How do you reduce swelling after rhinoplasty?
Arnica is a great way to reduce swelling after a rhinoplasty. In fact, it can be taken a few days before surgery and then after to help swelling dissipate quickly. It’s important to note that there are two types of swelling after a rhinoplasty. There is the initial post-surgery swelling that goes away within two weeks and then there’s fine swelling that can persist up to a year to a year and a half. This type of swelling is not really noticeable but it’s this swelling that, when it goes down, reveals the true definition of the nose. This is why we tell patients that you don’t really see the full results of your nose job until at least a year.
As a rule, those with thin skin will experience a shorter period of swelling time versus those with thicker skin. This is especially true for those coming in for a revision rhinoplasty, usually from a surgery performed by another surgeon. The prior surgery typically causes the skin to become thicker and therefore their swelling can last longer, on average from one and half to two years.
I love doing rhinoplasty. It’s a surgery I’ve done many, many times. I lecture all over the world about rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty. I’d be happy to talk to you about your issues with your nose, whether they be breathing problems or aesthetics, and it would be great to see you for a consultation and answer your questions.
Have questions?
Email Dr. Sykes at [email protected]
Read More
Rhinoplasty Swelling and Healing Stages
What Is a Natural Rhinoplasty?
Why Does My Nose Look Bigger After Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty Before & After Photos
About Dr. Jonathan Sykes
Dr. Jonathan Sykes is a world-famous expert plastic surgeon who performs all cosmetic and functional plastic surgery procedures on the face and neck. He is a past president of The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and served on their Board of Directors for over 10 years. He is also a Professor Emeritus in Facial Plastic Surgery from UC Davis Medical Center, and the former Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at that institution.
He is known as the expert’s expert, and is often called to consult and advise other plastic surgeons in both Northern California and Beverly Hills. He has a special interest in eyelid and browlift surgery, facial rejuvenation surgery including facelifts, and rhinoplasty. He also has a particular interest in facial feminization surgery. Have questions? Email Dr.Sykes at: [email protected]
