Rhinoplasty Recovery Los Angeles
Many men and women from Long Beach, Santa Monica and Los Angeles considering rhinoplasty are particularly interested in what the recovery process after nose surgery will be like. In general, most patients are able to return to their normal activities in 3 to 7 days, even though it may take over six months for the final result to be apparent. Because each patient’s rhinoplasty procedure will be different, your experience may vary.
To learn all about recovery and what you can expect from your specific situation, talk with our surgeons in person by requesting a consultation. You can receive a free consultation with our surgeons when you request your consultation online and schedule your visit during one of the convenient appointment times he has set aside exclusively for Web visitors.
For most people, recovery follows a similar course:
- Ice packs may be applied to the eyes for 2 to 3 days to reduce swelling
- Some bleeding is common in the first few days
- Most people feel well enough to perform normal activities within 3 days, but a splint or cast is worn over the nose for 7 days
- Bruises around your eyes that appear immediately after surgery should fade in one week
- You may feel congested for several weeks
- Noticeable swelling may last 2 to 4 weeks
- The skin on the nose will be sensitive for several months and sun block is required
- Numbness of the nasal tip may last for several months
During the recovery period, many of our fly-in patients choose to stay at Serenity aftercare facility where 24 hour nursing care and all the amenities of a luxury hotel ensure that you are safe and comfortable.
Our Los Angeles rhinoplasty patients are advised to elevate their head, both while sleeping and awake, to help reduce swelling. Most patients would not describe their recovery as painful, and any discomfort can be minimized with prescription medication. Patients need to avoid blowing their nose or doing anything else that would increase the risk of bleeding or abnormal healing.
Although you will be able to get a sense of your results about 2 weeks after surgery, subtle changes will continue to appear over 6 to 12 months. Your final result will not be visible for at least 6 months and subtle changes may continue to occur for up to 2 years. Request a consultation with Dr. Stevens to learn more about the dramatic cosmetic improvements possible with nose surgery.