Rhinoplasty Recovery Photos Day by Day: Swelling, Bruising and Results

Rhinoplasty is a life changing procedure, and most patients are excited to see results quickly. However, recovery involves a period of initial side effects, such as swelling and bruising, with final results appearing gradually.

Discover the rhinoplasty recovery photos day by day with Turkey Luxury Clinics to set realistic expectations for the first days, weeks, and even months after your nose job.

Book your nose job with expert surgeons at Turkey Luxury Clinics and take a step toward a better life.

What is a Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure performed to reshape the nose for cosmetic purposes or to correct medical issues, such as breathing problems.

The procedure involves modifying the bone and cartilage to change the size, width, tip, and overall shape of the nostrils. It is a major surgery performed under general anesthesia and typically takes around 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

Recovery is gradual and can last up to 12 months. Early results become noticeable within a few weeks as initial healing occurs and side effects subside, but it may take several months for the nose to achieve its final shape. Unlike non-surgical nose jobs, rhinoplasty provides permanent results that last a lifetime.

What to Expect After Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Immediately after rhinoplasty, a recovery period begins. Full healing typically takes about 12 months, during which minor side effects are common. These may include visible swelling of the nose, bruising, some discomfort (managed with medication), and nasal congestion that can make breathing difficult.

The intensity and duration of these effects vary between patients but usually last 2 to 4 weeks. As these side effects subside, the results gradually become more noticeable.

The typical recovery timeline can be summarized as follows:

1. Week 1: The nasal cast is often removed.
2. Week 2: Most major swelling and bruising have resolved.
3. Up to 6 weeks: Strenuous exercise can usually be resumed.
4. By 12 months: The nose has fully healed, revealing the final results.

Learn how undereye fillers and lip fillers can enhance your facial contours and complement your rhinoplasty results.

Rhinoplasty Recovery Photos Day by Day

Rhinoplasty recovery is a gradual process, with the first few days being the hardest due to peak swelling and bruising. By the end of the first week, you'll have a follow-up to remove your splint and stitches, and can start a return to normal activities. Swelling will continue to fade over the next few weeks, and your final results will become clearer over several months. To reduce facial swelling and improve skin appearance after surgery, check out our guide on facial Botox for a refreshed look.

Understanding day by day recovery and looking at patients and testimonials before-and-after photos is helpful to manage expectations about how your nose will continue to change over time.

Day 1–3 Rhinoplasty Recovery with Photos

When you wake up from anesthesia, you may feel dizzy, puffy, and tired, with some nasal discomfort, a dull headache, or mild nosebleeds.

Most notably, you will notice an internal nasal splint inside your nose for structural support and an external cast on top of your nose for protection. Both help maintain the new shape of your nose and shield it during the initial healing phase.

The first 72 hours are the most critical, with peak swelling, bruising, discomfort, and nasal congestion due to the splints. During this period, carefully follow your surgeon's instructions: use saline spray frequently to relieve congestion, rest with your head elevated, avoid strenuous activities, and gently apply cold compresses to reduce swelling.

Photos from Day 1–3 of Rhinoplasty Recovery show significant swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes. The external cast and internal splint are visible, supporting and protecting the new shape of the nose.

Day 4–7 (First Week) Rhinoplasty Recovery with Photos

During the first week, swelling is still significant, and nasal congestion may make breathing difficult. Handle your nose very gently and avoid sneezing, rubbing, itching, or any accidental impact. Continue resting with your head elevated and follow all post-operative instructions carefully.

By the end of the first week, or sometimes into the second week depending on the complexity of your surgery, the surgeon will remove the external cast and, in some cases, the internal splint. Seeing your new nose at this stage can be exciting.

On Day 7, the external cast and internal splint are removed, giving the first clear view of your nose. Swelling is still noticeable, and some bruising around the eyes (“raccoon eyes”) is normal. You can see early changes, though your nose may appear larger than its final shape.

Photos from Day 4–7 (First Week) of Rhinoplasty Recovery show that swelling remains noticeable, with “raccoon eyes” still present. By day 7, the cast and sometimes the internal splint are removed, giving the first clear view of the nose’s early contours.

Day 8–14 (Second Week) Rhinoplasty Recovery with Photos

During the second week of recovery, approximately 90% of the remaining swelling and bruising should have noticeably reduced, allowing you to see the initial results of your nose reshaping more clearly. Keep in mind that your nose will continue to refine and settle over the coming weeks and months.

Bruising begins to fade, and as congestion improves and any remaining splints are removed, breathing becomes easier. You will gradually regain your strength and can start returning to normal daily activities, including work, by the end of this week.

Photos from Day 8–14 (Second Week) of Rhinoplasty Recovery show reduced bruising and swelling, with the nose starting to display its reshaped contours. Patients appear more comfortable and begin returning to normal activities.

Weeks 2–4 Rhinoplasty Recovery with Photos

After the second week and up to week 4, most patients notice significant improvement as bruising, swelling, and discomfort continue to resolve. You can generally return to your normal daily activities, though strenuous efforts, vigorous exercise, contact sports, and heavy lifting should still be avoided.

During this period, careful nasal protection remains important, including avoiding sunburn or any accidental impact. This stage is when many patients begin to enjoy the early results of their nose job, seeing the new shape and transformation of their nose more clearly, while continuing to support healing.

Photos from Weeks 2–4 of Rhinoplasty Recovery show most of the swelling and bruising resolved, highlighting the nose’s new shape. Subtle changes continue, but the overall transformation is clearly visible.

1-2 Months Rhinoplasty Recovery with Photos

Most swelling usually resolves within the first few weeks, though subtle improvements may continue for months.

Minor numbness or tingling at the tip of the nose is normal and gradually improves.

Breathing becomes easier as internal swelling subsides, and the contours of the nasal bridge, tip, and nostrils become more defined.

Results will continue refining, with the final shape visible within about a year. Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and sun exposure, and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure smooth recovery.

Photos from 1–2 Months of Rhinoplasty Recovery show a more refined nasal shape, with defined tip, bridge, and nostrils. Minor bumps or hardened areas may still appear as tissue and cartilage continue healing.

3 Months and Beyond Rhinoplasty Recovery with Photos

In the months following rhinoplasty, up to 12–18 months, patients typically achieve full recovery. This period is characterized by complete healing, normalized breathing, and the ability to resume all activities, including strenuous exercise and sports. The final results, including the nose’s shape and contours, become fully visible.

Photos from 3–12 months of rhinoplasty recovery show the nose gradually refining, with residual swelling, especially at the tip, slowly disappearing and revealing the final shape and contours.

Top Rhinoplasty Recovery Tips for Fast and Safe Healing

Recovering safely and quickly after rhinoplasty is essential for achieving best results, minimizing risks of complication and preventing the need for revision

Follow these expert tips for a smooth recovery process:

1. Do not blow your nose. Avoid any pressure that can affect healing.

2. Keep your head elevated while resting or sleeping to reduce swelling.

3. Use cold compresses to minimize bruising and discomfort.

4. Follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully for optimal results.

5. Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor progress.

6. Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated to support tissue healing.

7. Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or intense exercise until cleared by your doctor.

8. Avoid sun exposure to prevent discoloration and protect healing skin.

9. Do not smoke or use nicotine products, as they slow down recovery.

10. Avoid anti-inflammatory medications unless prescribed by your doctor.

11. Use saline nasal spray and moisturize nasal passages to prevent dryness and congestion.

12. Take gentle walks to improve circulation and overall recovery.

13 Avoid spicy foods if they worsen discomfort or congestion.

14. Avoid wearing glasses resting on the nose until your surgeon approves.

15. Be patient, the full recovery and final results can take several months.

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Book your rhinoplasty today with Turkey Luxury Clinics.

Looking for a nose job? Whether you have a crooked nose, a bump on the bridge, a wide tip, or breathing difficulties, our expert surgeons can help you achieve a flawless and functional nose.

Turkey Luxury Clinics is your trusted partner, offering experienced plastic surgeons, affordable prices, and comprehensive packages—so you can transform your nose with confidence and at a cost-effective rate.

FAQs About Rhinoplasty Recovery Photos Day by Day