It takes time for both the outside and inside of the nose to heal after rhinoplasty. Therefore, we must be patient with the recovery process. During the initial weeks, follow all of the surgeon’s guidelines for sleeping positions, activity restrictions, and more. This will facilitate proper internal and external healing.
For at least the first week, continue sleeping with the head in an elevated position. This will reduce discomfort and major symptoms. Swelling and bruising around the nose and under the eyes are the worst about 2-3 days after surgery. However, they will gradually improve with proper care.
About 90% of the symptoms should be gone after a month. However, numbness in the nasal skin due to nerve disruption may persist for up to a year before fully recovering. Therefore, be careful when washing your face or performing other facial activities during this time.
Surgeons usually give clearance to resume light exercise after 3 weeks of recovery. Return to contact sports or strenuous activity requires more time, often 3-6 months.