How long does the bruising and swelling last after rhinoplasty? i want to get rhinoplasty before my 20th anniversary party. how far in advance should i plan in order to be completely healed from all the swelling and bruising?

If : If you have any bruising after your rhinoplasty, it should resolve after about 2 weeks. The swelling takes a little longer and depends a lot on your skin thickness and what type of work is being done. There's often residual nose swelling for up to about a yeat after surgery (often pretty subtle such that no one else would notice) so the more time you have to heal the better your nose should look. Your surgeon should be able to give you a better idea of when you'll look healed enough to go to your party.

Bruising : Bruising and swelling vary depending on many variables that include skin type, history of prior trauma and susceptibility to bruising, the extent of work being performed on the nose, open versus closed approach, medications/herbals being used, methods used to control bleeding during surgery, and to some extent the skill and experience of the surgeon. In general, most bruising subsides within 2-4 weeks and one should avoid unprotected sun exposure during this time to minimize risk of pigmentary changes of the skin. Swelling , in general, is significantly minimized within the first several weeks, but the last area to usually subside is the nasal tip which can take up to 6-9 months (more notably seen for open approaches, thicker skin types, revisional surgery cases).

Well in advance!: I generally cringe when patients request a procedure just before an event. Bruising and swelling are typically minimal, but if there are any issues with healing you don't want them just before your event. I recommend giving 4-6 months to heal at a minimum, so start early, and enjoy the results!

6 months: Most of the swelling is gone by 3 months after surgery. It takes one year for complete healing, but the nose should be fine at 6 months and after. Speak to your surgeon, as it is different based on how much work you may need. Happy anniversary!