Stage 5 of 8

Day 14 Post-Op

Two weeks since surgery! You've reached an important checkpoint. Most bruising should have faded, and you're ready to resume many normal activities.

Two-Week Milestone

Congratulations on reaching the two-week mark! This is when most patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities. Here's what you can expect at this stage.

Physical Recovery

Bruising

Most of the bruising should have faded by now. You may still have some faint discolouration - light yellow or dark circles under the eyes - but these will continue to resolve over the coming weeks. Concealer can be used if needed.

Swelling

The majority of visible swelling is coming down, but you're still swollen. This is by no means your final result. Expect continued improvement over the coming months.

Nasal Breathing

Your breathing should be improving, though some patients require up to three months for complete nasal function to return. If you're still congested, this is normal.

Activity & Lifestyle

Activities You Can Resume

At the two-week mark, most restrictions have lifted. You can now:

  • Return to work - Most desk jobs can be resumed
  • Resume social activities - You're presentable enough for social situations
  • Wash your face and hair normally - No special precautions needed
  • Sleep flat - Though elevated sleeping is still beneficial for reducing swelling
  • Start gentle exercise - Gradually over the next 1-2 weeks

Still Be Careful With

  • Glasses - Continue to avoid resting glasses on your nose unless approved
  • Contact sports - Wait at least 6 weeks
  • Swimming - Wait until fully healed
  • Strenuous exercise - Resume gradually
  • Sun exposure - Protect your nose with high SPF if outdoors

Appearance Expectations

At two weeks, you'll notice continued improvement but remember:

  • You're still swollen - this is not your final result
  • Swelling reduction continues for months
  • Tip definition and details will gradually emerge
  • Weekly changes are noticeable now; later, changes happen monthly

What Others See

Most people won't notice you've had surgery at this point unless they knew beforehand. The changes are often subtle enough that people may think you just look "refreshed" or "well-rested."

Skin Care

After wearing the splint and steristrips, your skin may be:

  • Oily or flaky
  • Showing some texture changes
  • More sensitive than usual

Address these with gentle cleansers and non-comedogenic moisturisers. Avoid harsh products or treatments on your nose for now.

Social Reintegration

Most patients feel confident returning to work and socialising at this stage. Any remaining minor swelling or faint bruising is generally only noticeable to you. Others typically won't observe the subtle changes still occurring.

Looking Forward

From here, your recovery continues but becomes less intensive. You'll notice gradual refinements over the coming weeks and months. Continue to be patient - the final result takes time to reveal itself.