The first 24–48 hours
After surgery most patients are discharged the same day, after about 6–7 hours of observation. In the first days nasal congestion, facial swelling and a mild feeling of heaviness are expected. Because of blood swallowed during surgery, stools may be dark; this is generally not a cause for concern, but your doctor should be told if it lasts longer than a few days.
Sleeping on a high pillow with your head above heart level helps reduce swelling.
The first week
The job of this period is rest. Apart from light walks, strenuous activity, heavy lifting, bending forward and blowing the nose are avoided. Very hot drinks and steamy showers should be avoided. Bruising may appear around the eyes; this is an ordinary part of healing and fades over time.
From the second week to the second month
Most patients return to desk work in this period. Swelling decreases quickly, but a slight swelling of the tip and bridge can last for months. This does not mean the result is “not there”; nasal tissue heals slowly. Check-ups at the intervals set by your doctor are an important part of this process.
The sixth month and the first year
The nose fully settles between six months and one year. Especially in noses with thick skin, fine details can take longer to become visible. A check-up at one year is recommended for the final assessment.
Points to observe during this time
Smoking affects healing negatively. It is important not to rest glasses or similar weights on the nose, to protect the nose from the sun, and not to use aspirin or other medicines that may increase bleeding without consulting your doctor. If there is heavy bleeding, fever, increasing pain or a sudden change in shape, contact the team without delay.
This article is for general information; an examination is required for personal diagnosis and treatment.
