Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) Surgery Recovery

Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) Surgery 

Rhinoplasty surgery generally takes about two hours to complete. However, the entire procedure right from preparing for the surgery to actual recovery post-surgery will take much more time. During your initial consultation, your surgeon will explain the important aspects of the recovery process.

The Virginia Institute of Plastic Surgery, led by board certified plastic surgeons Dr. Burton M. Sundin and Dr. Reps B. Sundin, provides rhinoplasty (nose job) to patients in Richmond, Fredericksburg, Northern Virginia, and surrounding locations.

General Guidelines for Post-Operative Care

Following rhinoplasty, your surgeon or one of the team members will explain the care regimen to be followed. Your ability to adhere to the prescribed guidelines with diligence will determine how easily you recover from the surgery. It is good to have a family member or a friend to assist you with daily chores for the first few days after the rhinoplasty.

The post-operative guidelines given by your surgeon will generally involve the following instructions:

Get enough hydration Stay at home and get enough rest in the first week after your surgery Use a cold compress if you experience swelling Avoid vigorous exercise and intense physical activity in the first week after surgery. Do not blow your nose for the first few days following rhinoplasty

Guidelines for the First 48 Hours Post-Surgery

For most patients, the first 48 hours after rhinoplasty are the most challenging. They tend to experience problems such as bruising, swelling, headache, and nosebleed.

The effects of anesthesia will not have worn off and you may experience discomfort and mild pain from the surgery. Some patients also suffer from a headache and a puffy face during this period. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication if you do not get relief after using over-the-counter pain relievers.

The surgeon may prescribe pain drugs, although some patients may only need over the counter pain meds. Patients may experience the following problems during the Asian rhinoplasty recovery phase:

Your surgeon will advise you to stay in bed for the first 24 hours after the surgery, with your head elevated above the rest of the body.

Some patients may experience a nosebleed. You must take care to avoid blowing the nose for the first few days after the procedure to prevent loosening or opening of the stitches.

Follow-Up After Week 1

When you see your surgeon after the first week following the surgery, they will assess your progress and remove the splint, sutures, and any nasal packing.

Most patients resume work and get back to their normal routines after a week of rhinoplasty. However, it is important to avoid lifting heavy objects and keep away from intense physical activities for a few more weeks. Avoid air travel and blowing your nose during this time.

You may continue to experience swelling or puffiness in the operated area for a few months. The final shape and size of your nose will show up gradually and outweigh any of the initial discomfort you may have faced soon after the surgery. Plastic surgeons at VIPS receive patients from Richmond, Fredericksburg, Northern Virginia, and nearby areas for nose job.

Contact Virginia Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Sundin Today for a Consultation

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Board Certified Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. Reps Sundin and Dr. Burton Sundin please visit

Serving Richmond, VA, Fredricksburg, Williamsburg, Charlottesville, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Tidewater, Sullfolk, Virginia Beach, Northern Virginia, Washington DC, Vienna, McLean, Fairfax, Loudoun County, Ashburn, Tysons Corner, Reston, Arlington and surrounding communities.