As a cosmetic surgeon who has been performing nose surgery (rhinoplasty) for many years, one of the most common questions I receive from my patients is:
‘How long will it take for my nose to fully heal?’

Rhinoplasty is a procedure that offers impressive results in terms of both aesthetics and functionality. However, it is important to know that the recovery process takes time and that patience is very important during this process.
Here is the step-by-step recovery process after rhinoplasty…

First Week: Initial Period

The first week after the operation is when swelling and bruising are at their worst. You might feel a bit of tenderness and pressure around your nose. It might be hard to breathe through your nose for the first few days because of the tampons or supports put inside your nose. But patients usually feel much better once the splints and supports are removed on the 7th day.

During the first week, patients should take care to rest and stay out of the sun. This period is the most critical stage of recovery.

Week 2: Visible Improvement

By the end of the second week, most of the bruising will have subsided and the swelling will begin to decrease. At this point, patients usually feel ready to return to work or their social lives.
There may still be some swelling at the tip of the nose, but this will not be noticeable from the outside.

During this period, strenuous exercise, bending forward and direct sunlight should be avoided.

1 Month Later: The Initial Appearance of the New Nose

At the end of one month, the shape of the nose begins to appear more clearly. Although the swelling has largely subsided, there may still be some oedema, especially at the tip of the nose.
At this stage, light exercise can be started and wearing glasses becomes more comfortable.

Many patients experience a noticeable increase in self-confidence during this period because their nose begins to look more harmonious with their facial features and aesthetically pleasing.

2-3 Months Later: One Step Closer to Results

Between the second and third months, the nasal contours become more pronounced and the swelling continues to subside. Most patients are fully adapted to their daily lives at this stage.

However, the most important point to note is that the nose must be protected from blows. Contact sports and activities that could cause facial trauma should be avoided at all costs.

6-12 Months Later: The Final Result

It can take approximately 6 to 12 months for the nose to heal completely and take its final shape.
During this period, the final swelling at the tip of the nose will completely disappear and the new structure achieved through surgery will blend in with the facial anatomy.

Many of my patients are amazed to see how the results improve day by day during this period. That is why many patients who choose rhinoplasty in Istanbul know how important it is to choose the right surgeon for permanent and natural-looking results.

How Can Results Be Maintained in the Long Term?

Rhinoplasty is a procedure that offers permanent results. However, as the ageing process continues, a healthy lifestyle, balanced nutrition, regular skin care and sun protection habits help to maintain the aesthetic appearance achieved for many years.

Nose Aesthetics // As a Result

Rhinoplasty is not only an aesthetic change, but also a healing process that requires patience and care.
Although the initial results are visible quickly, complete healing requires time, attention and patience. Working with an experienced cosmetic surgeon is of great importance in order to go through this process safely and consciously.

If you are considering rhinoplasty in Istanbul, I would be happy to meet with you to share the most accurate information tailored to your expectations and anatomical structure and to plan the process in the healthiest way possible.