Rhinoplasty Recovery Timeline

Updated January 2026

Medically reviewed by Dr. Anh Tuan Truong

Triple Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon

Rhinoplasty

What you can expect for a smooth rhinoplasty recovery.

While every patient is different, it’s important to have realistic expectations as it may take six months to one year to see your final rhinoplasty result. For the best possible results it’s best to always follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions. Here are some practical recovery tips following your nose reshaping surgery:

  1. If you have a splint on your nose, keep it clean and dry until you are seen by the doctor.  If you do not have a splint, you may remove the gauze and shower the day after surgery. 
  2. Keep your steri-strips intact until you see the doctor at your first post op appointment. 
  3. Cleanse incision area with soapy cotton-tipped applicators daily.
  4. Absolutely no blowing of your nose for the first 2 weeks after surgery.
  5. No strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks after surgery.
  6. Remember it will take approximately 8-12 months for all the swelling to resolve and for the final result.
  7. Bruising around the eyes and nose is to be expected after surgery.
  8. Continue your entire prescription of antibiotics until they are all finished.
  9. Take your pain pills as needed every 4-6 hours as needed.
  10. Do not use any ice or heat on the nose.

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Photo of Anh-Tuan Truong, MD, FACS

Anh-Tuan Truong, MD, FACS

Medically reviewed by Dr. Anh-Tuan Truong, MD, FACS – Triple Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Surgery, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Truong specializes in advanced breast, body, and facial procedures, is a member of the elite Dr. Miami Squad, and serves as an Officer & Board Trustee for the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.