Six Weeks After Rhinoplasty: What to Expect
Understand the healing timeline at six weeks post-rhinoplasty, including swelling patterns, when you can resume activities, and what changes are still to come.
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2-3 hours
General
Day case
2-3 weeks
6-12 months
5-15%
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a "nose job," is a surgical procedure to reshape the nose. It can address both cosmetic concerns and functional issues such as breathing difficulties caused by a deviated septum.
The nose is central to facial harmony, and even small changes can have a significant impact on your overall appearance. I take a conservative approach, aiming for natural-looking results that complement your other features rather than creating an obviously "operated" look.
This approach uses a small incision across the columella (the strip of tissue between the nostrils), allowing full visibility of the nasal structures. It's often preferred for more complex cases or revision surgery.
All incisions are made inside the nose, leaving no visible external scars. This technique is suitable for many patients and typically has a slightly shorter recovery time.
When functional issues such as a deviated septum are present, I can correct these at the same time as reshaping the external nose. This combined procedure addresses both appearance and breathing.
During your consultation, I'll listen to your concerns and what you hope to achieve. I'll examine your nose carefully, considering your skin type, cartilage structure, and how changes might affect your breathing.
I use 3D imaging technology to show you potential outcomes. This helps set realistic expectations and ensures we're aligned on your goals before proceeding.
After surgery, you'll wear a splint on your nose for about a week. Swelling and bruising around the eyes is normal and typically settles within 2-3 weeks, though subtle swelling (particularly at the tip) can take 6-12 months to fully resolve.
Most patients return to work after 2 weeks, though you should avoid strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks and contact sports for 3 months.
All surgery carries risks. Specific risks for rhinoplasty include:
I'll discuss all potential risks thoroughly during your consultation and answer any questions you may have.
Around 5-15% of patients may wish to have a revision procedure, either due to cosmetic concerns or functional issues. If you had your original rhinoplasty with me and require a revision, I do not charge a surgeon's fee for the revision surgery.
The cost depends on the complexity of the procedure and whether it's a primary or revision rhinoplasty. I'll provide a detailed quote after your consultation. Finance options are available.
With closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are inside the nose. With open rhinoplasty, there's a small incision across the columella that typically heals to become nearly invisible.
You'll see a noticeable improvement once the splint is removed and the initial swelling subsides (around 2-3 weeks). However, the final result takes 6-12 months as subtle swelling gradually resolves, particularly at the tip.
Yes. If you have a deviated septum or other structural issues affecting your breathing, these can be corrected during the same procedure (septorhinoplasty).
The nose should be fully developed before surgery, which is typically around 16-17 for girls and 17-18 for boys. There's no upper age limit as long as you're in good health.
Book a confidential consultation to discuss your goals and find out if rhinoplasty is right for you.