How long does it take to recover from a partial collapsed lung?

A few hrs to 1-2 day: A pneumothorax can be treated immediately with a small bore catheter that can lead to lung expansion. The chest tube usually remains in place for 1-2 days following lung expansion.

Patience: The hole in the lung from trauma or spontaneous collapse can potentially seal in just a few days (like a scab). The lung tissue takes longer to fully heal, depending on type and extent of initial injury. If from trauma, associated chest wall injury (rib fractures, etc...) as well as chest tube site may take weeks to months to heal.