How Long Does Bruising Last After Rhinoplasty?

Bruising after rhinoplasty around the eyes and cheekbones is a common post-operative side effect. As part of the body's healing process, a vast majority of patients experience slight bruising and swelling after a nose job. Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed throughout this country. It can be a fantastic solution to help a person's nose be more cosmetically appealing or improve structural abnormalities, such as a deviated septum. Whatever the reason for considering rhinoplasty, it is common to experience some swelling and bruising afterward.

Here is a more in-depth look at this topic from award-winning and board-certified plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, Dr. Kevin Sadati. You can also feel free to schedule an online or in-person consultation today by calling our Southern California office.

Will I have black eyes after rhinoplasty?

You will be eager to see your rhinoplasty results right away, but the healing process takes time. During rhinoplasty recovery, side effects associated with this cosmetic procedure are generally minimal. However, it is helpful to be prepared beforehand for what you will experience afterward. Some of the common side effects after a nose job are:

• Mild pain and discomfort for a few days
• Slight nasal bleeding as blood vessels in the nose attempt to heal
• Numbness or tingling around the nose or upper lip
• Mild to moderate swelling
• Mild to moderate bruising around the eyes

Why does bruising after rhinoplasty occur?

Not every patient will endure bruising after a nose job. If bruising occurs, it generally happens under the eyes. Bruising occurs when blood vessels along the eye area get trapped underneath the skin, causing a purple or blue color to appear. After rhinoplasty, it is not uncommon for blood vessels around the nasal structure to be disrupted along the eye's orbital rim, thus creating the appearance of a black eye. Any post-operative bruising should begin to dissipate in 7 – 10 days. Patients can apply a bag of frozen peas or ice packs to the cheek or eye area for at least 2 – 3 days after surgery, as cold compresses will reduce swelling and help any bruising heal more quickly. After rhinoplasty, keeping the head elevated will also alleviate these common post-operative symptoms.

Helpful rhinoplasty recovery tips to reduce bruising and swelling

Even though every patient will have a different rhinoplasty recovery, there are some steps to ensure a smoother healing process. Orange County, CA patients should keep their head elevated and use cold compresses as effective measures to minimize any post-operative bruising and swelling. Hot showers or baths should also be avoided for two weeks, as hot water can aggravate inflammation and potentially slow down the healing process. During rhinoplasty recovery, patients should reduce their sodium intake, as it causes the body to retain fluid. At the same time, avoid using anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling for the first week. Studies have shown this can slow down the recovery process after surgery. Patients should forgo strenuous exercise for 4 – 6 weeks to keep bruising and swelling to a minimum. Southern California patients should wait until cleared by Dr. Sadati before resuming their regular workout routine.

Whether you have an aesthetic concern or a medical need, rhinoplasty can provide stunning, dramatic results for both women and men. An experienced and knowledgeable plastic surgeon will preserve the nasal structure's integrity during the procedure to minimize post-operative bruising. If you would like to learn more about this surgical procedure, contact our Orange County, CA office to schedule an in-person or virtual consultation with renowned board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Kevin Sadati.