Rhinoplasty is one of Dr. Shapiro's favorite procedures. It can be very frustrating for patients because they come in and get the nose job and the nose looks great after they get the splint off but their nose swells. Patients often ask how long their nose will remain swollen after nasal reshaping and what they can do about it. There are many layers in the nose, including the bone, cartilage and soft tissue. Whenever these tissues are disrupted, whether its a primary rhinoplasty or revision rhinoplasty, swelling occurs. This swelling is visible because it obliterates the definition of the nose or makes it seem like it is not as refined as right after surgery. This swelling gradually goes down and is completely resolved by one year. Patients with thick skin, such as those of Persian descent or patients who lack definition at the tip of their nose, may see swelling that lasts even longer. Dr. Shapiro says he often shows patients exercises that are done with the fingers to help drain away fluid along the dorsum and the tip of the nose. Dr. Shapiro may also inject very diluted steroids into the tip of the nose to help with ongoing swelling. He may also have patients wear silicone gel sheeting or tape their noses at night. Patients should also follow all surgeon's instructions to speed recovery and alleviate these side effects, including keeping the head elevated, maintaining any splint or cast on the nose and using ice. Patients can be very frustrated with this result of the surgery, and some patients do not experience rapid recovery. The good news is the swelling will eventually resolve and the surgeon can take steps to help the swelling resolve sooner. Swelling after rhinoplasty varies significantly, as does the entire rhinoplasty recovery process. The greater the extent of the surgery, the thicker the skin and if the open technique is used rather than the closed technique, the longer the swelling will last. Whether any previous nasal surgery has been performed can also impact swelling resolution. Swelling will be most pronounced during the first week, when the swelling is usually moderate. By the end of the second week most swelling and bruising will subside in most patients, so much so that it may not be obvious to casual observers that any surgery had been performed. The nose will still look puffy or swollen to the patient for many months. It is the last 20% of the swelling that can take much longer to clear up. In the end, final swelling is typically only evident to the surgeon and the patient. Swelling in the tip of the nose is usually the last to resolve as well. For more information about finding the right surgeon to perform your rhinoplasty procedure you can contact us by visiting our site http://www.shapiroplasticsurgery.com/ or contact us using the information below. Scottsdale rhinoplasty http://www.shapiroplasticsurgery.com/surgical-procedures/face/rhinoplasty-and-nasal-surgery/rhinoplasty.php Shapiro Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Skin Klinic 5410 N. Scottsdale Rd. Building F-100 Scottsdale, AZ 85253 Phone: (480)-451-1700 *This video is for informational purposes only. Individual consultation required.*