Aesthetic plastic surgery, Belgrade, Serbia: Royal

Nose surgery, like any surgical procedure, brings certain changes to the body that require patience during recovery. One of the most common questions from patients after surgery is – when will the swelling disappear? Although the recovery process is individual and depends on various factors, there are some general guidelines that can help you better understand how swelling works and how to manage it.

When does the swelling reduce?

Swelling is a natural response of the body to surgical intervention, and its intensity and duration can vary from person to person. In the first few days after nose surgery, swelling is usually most prominent, and in most cases, it starts to decrease within the first 3-4 days. Bruises, which are often visible around the eyes, usually disappear within 1-2 weeks.

However, swelling in the nose may persist much longer. During the first two weeks, most of the swelling will be visible, but as the months go by, the swelling gradually decreases. The first month is usually when most of the swelling reduces by 60-70%, while full recovery can take up to two years. During this period, even though the swelling may be less visible on the outside, you may still feel a slight heaviness or pressure on your nose, which is also part of the healing process.

Can swelling be prevented?

Unfortunately, swelling and bruising are inevitable consequences of any nose surgery, but there are measures that can help reduce them and speed up recovery. These measures may include:

1. Applying cold compresses – Cold compresses during the first 48 hours after surgery can significantly reduce swelling and bruising. The cold constricts blood vessels, reducing circulation and thus bruising formation.
2. Keeping the head elevated – Keeping the head elevated while sleeping, at least for the first few days, reduces fluid buildup in the nose and eye area.
3. Reducing salt intake – Excessive salt can cause water retention in the body, which can worsen swelling. Therefore, it is recommended to reduce salt intake.
4. Drinking enough fluids – Maintaining fluid balance in the body is crucial for reducing swelling and speeding up recovery. Drinking water helps maintain hydration and normalize circulation.

What is the postoperative period like?

The postoperative period after nose surgery involves several recovery stages. Here’s how it typically progresses:

• First few days: After surgery, swelling will be the strongest, especially around the eyes. During this period, you may notice that the swelling is at its peak, and this is completely normal.
• First week: Within the first few days, most of the swelling will begin to subside, and bruising will fade. Patients usually feel relief, but may still experience slight pressure on the nose.
• First month: Most of the swelling around the nose significantly reduces, and bruising is almost gone. Although the nose is still not fully shaped, you will notice the first results.
• Up to six months: Swelling will still be present, but to a much lesser extent. During this period, you may begin to see the final shape of your nose, although it may still appear “imperfect” compared to the final appearance.
• One to two years: Complete recovery and disappearance of remaining swelling usually finishes within one to two years. It is important to note that the final shape of the nose won’t be visible immediately, and over time, any minor irregularities and remaining swelling will subside.

How does cryotherapy help reduce swelling?

One of the latest and most effective approaches to reducing swelling and bruising after nose surgery is cryotherapy. This method involves the controlled application of cold through specialized devices, allowing for the uniform reduction of swelling at a temperature of 15°C.

The benefits of cryotherapy:

• Continuous cold application helps reduce bleeding and bruising formation.
• Prevents skin damage that can occur when applying ice directly to the skin.
• Effectively reduces swelling without sudden temperature changes.

This method allows patients to recover more quickly and reduces the risk of complications, enabling them to return to normal activities faster than with traditional ice application.

Is swelling inevitable?

Swelling is a natural part of the recovery process after nose surgery and is almost unavoidable. Any surgical intervention causes some trauma to the tissue, leading to the body’s response in the form of swelling and bruising. Although swelling can be reduced with the help of advice and techniques, patience is required to achieve the final result.

• First 48 hours: Swelling typically increases, which is completely normal.
• First month: Swelling reduces by around 60-70%.
• One year: Complete reduction of swelling and achieving the final appearance of the nose.

Recovery after nose surgery requires patience and following the doctor’s advice. Although swelling can be frustrating, proper postoperative care and following instructions can significantly speed up the recovery process and lead to the desired results. Over time, swelling will disappear, and your new nose appearance will gradually become final and beautiful.  

How to schedule an appointment for rhinoplasty?

If you want to schedule an appointment for rhinoplasty, inquire about the cost of nose surgery, or have additional questions for us, please contact us at +381 65 202 77 77 or visit the following pages: Nose Surgery, Tip of the Nose Surgery and Full Nose Surgery