Swelling after rhinoplasty
Swelling After a Nose Job in Gangnam, Seoul
what is normal, and for how long.
Swelling is a normal part of healing after rhinoplasty, and it fades in stages: most of it within weeks, the last of it over months. This guide from ONYX in Gangnam, Seoul explains what to expect, why the tip takes longest and what helps.
- 01 1:1 consultation with the operating surgeon
- 02 3D CT scan & virtual simulation before surgery
- 03 Structure-first design with your own cartilage
- 04 English-friendly support via WhatsApp
How long does swelling last after a nose job?
Visible swelling peaks around days 2–3 and drops significantly within 2–3 weeks. By about three months, most people look natural to others.
Fine residual swelling, especially at the tip, can take 6–12 months to disappear, and longer with thick skin, open rhinoplasty or revision surgery. The nose may also look slightly more swollen in the morning.
| Peak swelling | Days 2–3 |
|---|---|
| Bruising fades | About 1–2 weeks |
| Most swelling gone | About 3–4 weeks |
| Looks natural to others | About 3 months |
| Tip fully settled | 6–12 months or more |
| Morning puffiness | Normal for several months |
Ways to reduce swelling
- Keep your head raised, including when sleeping
- Use cold compresses around the eyes for the first 48 hours
- Eat low-salt food and drink plenty of water
- Avoid alcohol, smoking and saunas
- Walk gently; avoid bending over and heavy lifting
If swelling suddenly increases on one side, or comes with pain, fever or redness, contact ONYX on WhatsApp.
What affects how long swelling lasts?
| Factor | Less swelling | More swelling |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Closed rhinoplasty | Open rhinoplasty |
| Skin | Thinner skin | Thicker skin |
| Bone work | None | Osteotomy (bone narrowing) |
| Surgery history | First surgery | Revision |
Swelling, stage by stage
Typical timeline only. Healing varies with the procedure, skin thickness and materials used.
- Day 1–3 Peak swelling around the nose, cheeks and eyes.
- Week 1 Splint off; the nose looks puffy but improving.
- Week 2–4 Most visible swelling gone.
- Month 3 Looks natural to others; tip still firm.
- Month 6–12 Final definition, especially at the tip.
Swelling After a Nose Job in Seoul: your questions answered.
Why is my nose tip still swollen?
The tip has thicker skin and slower lymphatic drainage, so it is always the last area to settle.
Why is swelling worse in the morning?
Fluid collects while you lie down; it eases during the day as you are upright.
Is one side more swollen than the other normal?
Mild asymmetry is common early on. A sudden one-sided increase with pain should be checked.
Can steroid injections reduce swelling?
Sometimes they are used for persistent tip swelling, but only when your surgeon decides it is appropriate.
When can I judge the final result?
Usually after 6–12 months, once swelling has fully resolved.
Plan your rhinoplasty consultation in Gangnam, Seoul.
Address
8F, 18 Gangnam-daero 94-gil
Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Getting here
Near Gangnam Station
Line 2 · Shinbundang Line
Hours (KST)
Mon–Fri 10:00–19:00
Sat 10:00–16:00
Closed Sundays & public holidays
Contact
