Rhinoplasty scars will be a small incision at the base of the nose. With proper care, such as avoiding sun exposure and following aftercare instructions, the scar can fade significantly, especially with scar treatments like silicone products.

You must wait until your wound is fully closed before starting use of your silicone scar products, when your wound has begun the “maturation phase” of scar healing. In short, this means your wound is no longer oozing, bleeding, scabbing, etc, which usually takes a few weeks. However if in doubt, we also suggest consulting your doctor to see if it’s time for scar treatment.

The initial recovery period lasts about 1-2 weeks, during which most swelling and bruising will subside. However, subtle swelling may persist for several months, and final results can take up to a year to fully emerge.

There are a few things you can do to reduce swelling after your rhinoplasty, such as: 

• Keeping your head elevated (even while sleeping)
• Applying cold compresses (avoid direct pressure though)
• Avoid strenuous activities for several weeks
• Follow your surgeon's post-op instructions carefully, including avoiding blowing your nose

If performed properly, rhinoplasty should not negatively impact breathing and, in many cases, can improve it by correcting structural issues like a deviated septum. However, temporary nasal congestion is common during the healing process.

A nasal splint is typically worn for 5 to 7 days after surgery to protect the nose and help it maintain its new shape during the early stages of healing.