The Surgery

Cosmetic or functional surgery of the nose usually takes two to three hours and may be done either with you asleep under general anesthesia or awake under sedation. Most incisions are placed inside the nostrils, but in some cases a small incision may be made in the natural creases along the sides or near the base of the nose. These heal quickly and leave scars that are nearly invisible. At the end of the operation, a cast will be placed on your nose. If there is any bleeding, a light dressing may be placed inside the nostrils and removed the same day or the next day. If any sutures were placed in a natural crease, they are removed in several days. The cast is usually removed in one week.

The Recovery

Most people are amazed by how little pain there is after nasal surgery. The most uncomfortable part of the recovery is the inability to breathe through the nose for several days due to swelling. This usually improves within one or two weeks. Expect some swelling around your eyes for several weeks. As the swelling subsides, you will start to see the improvements from your surgery. A few special precautions are required during your recovery. Bending or lifting can prolong swelling, so this is not recommended for three weeks after surgery. Running, cycling, or aerobics should not resume for three weeks. Contact sports should be avoided for six weeks, as it takes that long for the bones to fully heal. You may drive when the swelling subsides enough not to interfere with vision, and you may fly two to three weeks after surgery.

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