Breathing Problems After Rhinoplasty: When to See an ENT | MicroCare ENT Hyderabad

Rhinoplasty is also called a nose job. It changes the shape of your nose. Many people choose it for a better look. Some people also want better breathing. Still, after surgery, your nose needs time to heal. Because of this, breathing problems after rhinoplasty can happen.

Most of the time, the breathing issue is temporary. However, in some cases, it can last longer. So, it is important to know what is normal and what is not.

At MicroCare ENT Hospitals in Hyderabad, we help patients who feel blocked after nose surgery. We also guide them with safe recovery steps.

Published By microcareenthospitals.com / Updated: Dec 31, 2025

Is It Normal to Have Breathing Problems After Rhinoplasty?

Yes, it is normal in the early weeks.

After surgery, the inside of the nose swells. As a result, the airflow reduces. Also, you may have splints or packing. So, breathing through the nose becomes hard at first.

The good news is that this improves step by step.

Common Reasons for Breathing Difficulty After Rhinoplasty

Many people feel blocked for simple reasons. These include:

Swelling inside the nose
Dryness and crusting
Mucus build-up
Healing tissues
Splints or packing (temporary support)

Because the nose is healing, these issues are expected. Still, they should improve with time.

How Long Does It Take to Breathe Normally? (Easy Timeline)

Healing is different for each person. However, most people follow a similar pattern.

Right after surgery (Day 1–3)

Breathing is very difficult. This is because swelling is high.

Week 1–2

Packing may be removed. So, breathing feels a little better.

Week 2–4

Swelling starts reducing more. Therefore, airflow improves.

Week 4–6

Most people breathe better. Still, mild congestion may remain.

Week 6–12

Breathing becomes close to normal. Also, inside healing continues.

Month 3–6

Final healing happens. As a result, breathing and shape improve fully.

When Breathing Problems Are NOT Normal

Sometimes breathing stays blocked for too long. In that case, you may have a deeper issue. So, an ENT check is needed.

Possible causes include:

✅ 1. Nasal valve weakness
The valve area is very small. If it becomes weak, the nostril may collapse.

✅ 2. Septum deviation (crooked septum)
If the septum blocks one side, breathing becomes difficult.

✅ 3. Turbinate swelling
Turbinates can enlarge and reduce airflow.

✅ 4. Thick scar tissue
Some people form thick scars inside. Therefore, the airway becomes narrow.

✅ 5. Too much cartilage removal
If the nose support becomes weak, airflow may reduce.

These problems may need ENT care. Sometimes they need revision surgery. So, early evaluation is helpful.

Simple Signs That You Should See an ENT Specialist

Visit an ENT specialist in Hyderabad if you notice:

Breathing is still blocked after 8–12 weeks
One nostril closes while you inhale
You hear a whistling sound while breathing
There is severe pain or increasing swelling
You get repeated nosebleeds
You have fever or foul discharge
Your breathing gets worse instead of better
You feel panic due to poor airflow

If these happen, don’t wait. Early ENT care prevents long-term problems.

Safe Home Tips to Improve Breathing After Rhinoplasty

These tips can help, especially in the first few weeks:

Use saline spray (as advised)
Keep a cool-mist humidifier at night
Drink enough water daily
Sleep with your head slightly raised
Avoid dust, smoke, and strong perfumes
Rest well and avoid heavy workouts

🚫 Avoid these:

Do not blow your nose hard
Do not pick inside crusts
Do not use medicines without your doctor’s advice

Because healing tissues are delicate, gentle care is best.

How MicroCare ENT Hospitals in Hyderabad Can Help

At MicroCare ENT Hospitals (Hyderabad, Telangana), we check the nose safely and clearly. We may suggest:

✅ Nasal endoscopy to see inside
✅ Septum and valve assessment
✅ Turbinate swelling evaluation
✅ Recovery support plan
✅ Functional correction if required

We focus on breathing safety first. Then we help you heal comfortably.

Conclusion: Get Help at the Right Time

Breathing problems after rhinoplasty are common early on. However, they should improve slowly week by week. If the blockage stays too long, it may need ENT attention.

So, if you have difficulty breathing after rhinoplasty, visit MicroCare ENT Hospitals in Hyderabad for expert care and guidance.