Rhinoplasty: Experiences and recovery tips?

I’m still just weighing my options regarding a rhinoplasty, so I can’t offer any firsthand experience, but I suspect the decision really hinges on how much you actually dislike what you're working with. In my view, there are two camps: people who absolutely loathe their nose—maybe due to a prominent hump—and they feel a sense of pure relief once it's gone; then there are those of us who just want some subtle refinement. Personally, I’m leaning toward the latter, perhaps just narrowing the tip slightly. That hesitation is exactly what’s holding me back, because my nose isn't exactly a disaster by any means. 😂My biggest fear is that I might end up ruining something that already works, especially since my own doctor actually told me my nose looks perfectly fine as it is...

I have no idea what's going on here, but I'm definitely following along! 😁 regarding this thread about nose surgery... 🤷

Hi there.
It’s been exactly one year since my rhinoplasty. I never liked my nose, even though everyone told me I was being ridiculous. I spent so much time overthinking it. I had massive fears—what if it looks worse? What if it isn't actually that bad? Since I traveled from out of state, I saw Karabeg. We talked for ages. I kept repeating exactly what I wanted over and over again; honestly, he almost gave up on me because of how much I cycled through the same questions. Looking back at those conversations, I realize how exhausting I must have been for him. Making this decision isn't easy. It's your face. You want to be one hundred percent certain.
To get to the point: the day arrived. The fear, the nerves, the anxiety—it hit me all at once. But there was no turning back. I was committed. As I lay on that operating table, I just prayed to God for help. When I woke up from the anesthesia, I thought I was having a total mental breakdown. I felt like I had ruined my life. It was pure catastrophe—nausea, sickness, and vomiting all night long. And then, the plan was to go straight home the next morning. My only thought was my one-year-old son. I was terrified I wouldn't be able to hold him. He was just there with his mother. The next day didn't get any better regarding the nausea. I couldn't even leave my house in the morning like I planned; I had to wait until evening after receiving two more IV drips because the vomiting was so intense. I barely made it to the car, and I barely made it into the house. That feeling of regret—of thinking I’d done something stupid—wouldn't leave me. I had to take some Xanax just to calm down. I stopped thinking about the nose entirely. At that moment, I wasn't even focused on the results. By the second day after surgery, everything changed. I felt much better. The nausea vanished. I could finally get out of bed. The only struggle for the next few days was sleeping at night; the packing made it impossible to breathe through my nose, which was incredibly uncomfortable. During the day was fine, but nighttime was rough. Once they removed the packing after about six days, all those bad memories faded. Then, I started looking at my nose. I hadn't seen the full shape because of the cast; I could only see the tip. I had this split at the bridge that looked like two little bumps only I could see. Others didn't even notice when I complained. They didn't break my bones, and although we initially discussed it, the doctor decided against it during the procedure. I actually wish he had narrowed it a bit more, but the tip is perfect. I didn't have major bruising; whatever I had cleared up in three days. Personally, I had a hard time with the anesthesia; the staff thinks I just have a sensitive stomach. Hardly anyone knows I had surgery; only the people I told noticed. To everyone else, there is no visible difference, even though the internal changes are huge. When I look at old photos, my nose looked like a beak. Now, it is beautiful and symmetrical. I struggled through the first twenty-four hours, but after that, everything was okay. Despite the initial panic, the regret upon waking, and all that anxiety, I would do it all over again.
My advice: think very carefully about what you want and what you don't. Talk to your surgeon openly about everything. Be prepared for the possibility that things might turn out differently than expected. This is surgery. It doesn't matter if it's cosmetic; no surgery is simple. Gather your courage and fix whatever is bothering you. Especially if it's a nose with a large hump or something similar. I am always in favor of the surgery.
No doctor is a magician. You can't fix everything instantly. Many celebrities worldwide have had three or even more rhinoplasties. They pay hundreds of thousands of dollars for them.
That's all from me. Whatever you decide, good luck.
Full credit goes to Dr. Karabeg and his team.

Hey John Cox8, I couldn't help but crack up reading that part of your post—the bit where you described feeling so wired after surgery that you practically needed Midazolam just to chill out. Even though it’s definitely not funny in reality, it killed me because that is *exactly* how I felt right after getting a massive tattoo session. I totally relate to that frantic vibe—man, I can only imagine... That's pretty much my biggest fear right there.

Kate Thompson45 said:Noah Moore4, I totally get where you're coming from. Honestly, I second-guessed myself about a hundred times before finally deciding on Smith. I just had a good feeling about him right from the start—and looking back, I don't regret it one bit. From what I could gather through the grapevine, there was only one girl who went to him for a rhinoplasty who wasn't happy, but we never actually saw any photos or anything... She claimed the bump she’d had removed came back, then started talking about bone malunion or whatever... so, who knows what the actual deal was. Some people are just wired to never be satisfied, no matter what.

As for Johnson, personally, I’d never make that call. I’ve heard way more horror stories about him than I ever have about Smith. For instance, I know that after surgery, he doesn't provide any discharge papers or documentation regarding the implants used. That just doesn't sit right with me—it makes me question his professionalism, frankly. BUT, hey, different strokes for different folks... I've seen plenty of posts from people who were thrilled with his work, so just keep that in mind 😕

I think your best bet is to book consultations with both of them and just see which vibe fits you better. That’s exactly what I did, and my gut instinct didn't steer me wrong—Smith turned out to be a total win for me! 😁

You can't just sit here and talk about something you clearly don't understand—you're insulting me publicly, acting like I'm some crazy person talking nonsense. I know exactly what my situation is and how I feel. And just for your information, several people on this forum and a whole bunch of people in my own circle have seen my nose. Stop rambling about my problem when you don't have a clue what's going on. If your goal is to praise and exalt this doctor, go right ahead, but leave me out of it because you have no idea what you're talking about...

Does anyone have a rough idea of how long it actually takes for everything to settle down and for the tip of the nose to finally lose that swelling?

gentlemaker46, I think you’ve lost the thread a bit here. You started out talking about a bump, then pivoted to bone fusion, and now I’m completely lost as to what exactly isn't sitting right with your nose. 🤷 Look, my intention wasn't to offend you, but it honestly rubbed me the wrong way to hear you speaking so poorly of a surgeon who quite literally changed my life for the better. He fixed something that has been a source of insecurity for me forever, and because of that, I’m much happier and more confident now. You know exactly how much that matters. Since I am genuinely thrilled with his work, I don't see why I shouldn't say so. From my perspective, he was always incredibly polite and transparent. He laid out exactly what to expect from the procedure—what could be perfected and where certain things might remain "imperfect." At the end of the day, he’s a doctor, not some miracle worker. That level of honesty meant a lot to me, and it's why I respect him so much. He could have easily lied to me and promised perfection just to close the deal, but he didn't. If he were only motivated by the money, as you claim, he wouldn't have conducted himself with such integrity.
I am truly sorry that you aren't feeling the same satisfaction with your results, but surely you realize that the outcome of any surgery depends as much on your own body's reaction as it does on the surgeon's skill.
Regardless, I sincerely hope you can get this sorted out quickly so you can finally feel happy with the result; I think we all deserve that, considering the amount of money we've poured into this, the physical pain we've endured, and not to mention the sheer anxiety involved.

Kate Thompson45 said:gentlemaker46, I think you might be getting a little mixed up here. First you were talking about a hump, then you switched to bone fusion—it’s all a bit muddled, so now I can't even tell what exactly is wrong with your nose?! 🤷 Look, I didn't mean to offend you, but it honestly bugs me when people talk trash about a doctor who actually made my life better. He fixed something that bothered me for years, and I'm genuinely happier for it. You know how it is... Since I'm so happy with his work, I don't see why I shouldn't say so. In my experience, he was always incredibly kind and upfront. He told me exactly what to expect from the surgery—what could be fixed and what might still look "off." At the end of the day, he's a surgeon, not some magician. That honesty meant a lot to me, and it's why I respect him. He could have easily lied to me and promised a miracle just to get the job done, but he didn't. If he only cared about the money, like you're claiming, he wouldn't have acted the way he did.
I am truly sorry you aren't happy with your results, but I'm certain you realize that any surgical outcome depends on both the surgeon's skill and how your own body decides to react...
Either way, I really hope you get this sorted out soon so you can finally be satisfied. I think we all deserve that, especially after dropping so much cash and dealing with the pain, the anxiety... well, not even going to mention the fear...

I'm not bad-mouthing the doctor; I'm just stating the facts of my situation. I already said there's something wrong with my nose. I just didn't know what it was at the time, which is why I went to a different specialist to explain things—because the doctor who operated on me either didn't see anything or chose not to. The hump is still there, but I'm not going to dwell on it anymore; if anyone actually cares, I can send a photo privately. I'm done talking about this because some people make me feel like I'm some crazy person just trying to smear a doctor's reputation or acting dissatisfied because I have nothing better to do... or because I'm just being difficult. So, I'm stopping. It's pointless anyway—I'm still unhappy, so what does it matter? I just want it on the record that I'm neither crazy nor stupid... and I won't be saying anything else...

Kate Thompson45 said:I’m still just weighing my options on nose surgery, so I can't give you any firsthand advice. Honestly, it all comes down to how much you actually hate what you're working with. You've got people who absolutely loathe their nose and feel like a whole new person once they get rid of a hump, then you've got people like me who just want some minor tweaks—like narrowing the tip a bit. That’s what’s holding me back. My nose isn't exactly a disaster, so I'm still on the fence. 😂 I'm worried I might just mess up what I already have. Besides, my doctor already told me my nose looks fine as it is.

No clue, I'm just here! 😁 On the topic of nose jobs... 🤷

I'm here. 😁
Got my appointment set for February 22nd. Now I just have to deal with endless Googling and constant anxiety until then. 😛
Hoping everything goes smooth. Can't wait to get this new nose and my braces sorted. 😁
I'll keep you guys posted. Fingers crossed. 😍

Ashley Young34 said:As for me, 😁
I finally locked in my appointment for February 22nd, which means I’m stuck in a loop of endless online research and pure anxiety until then. 😛
I'm praying everything goes smoothly; honestly, I can't wait to get this new nose and those dimples done. 😁
I'll keep you all posted on how it goes—wish me luck. 😍

Honey, dimples too??? 👋 I was under the impression you were only getting a rhinoplasty, but apparently there's more to the plan... 😉
Getting that date set is a huge win. The time will fly by faster than you think, trust me. I'm genuinely excited for you! 🎉

gentlemaker46 said:I am not talking about the doctor just to be spiteful; I am simply stating the facts of my situation. I admitted myself that something isn't right with my nose, but since I couldn't pinpoint the issue, I sought out a second specialist to explain what happened—especially since the surgeon who operated on me either missed it entirely or chose to ignore it. The bump is still there, but I won't dwell on it here; if anyone is genuinely interested, I can send a photo via private message. I’m stepping away from this discussion because some people make me feel like a lunatic who is just trying to smear a doctor's reputation out of pure bitterness or boredom, and frankly, I have no desire to deal with any unnecessary hostility. There is no point in continuing; I am still unsatisfied, which changes nothing, but I want to make it clear that I am neither crazy nor ignorant... so, I am done speaking on this matter.

Fine, consider the axe buried! 🙂 Personally, I'm interested in the results regarding the nose, though I'm not sure if you'll actually be willing to share photos given how tense things have become... 🤷

Oh, and thanks for staying quiet. Looking back, I realize just how many mistakes I made while drafting that initial post! 😍

Kate Thompson45 said:Honey, what about those little nuggets? 👋 I thought you were only doing nose work, then out of nowhere... 😉
Great timing on the appointment. You'll be through this before you know it, just watch. I'm stoked! 🎉

Yeah, exactly. Just the upper lip. 😁 Since I'm already doing the whole thing anyway, might as well just knock it all out in one shot. 😁
Now we just play the waiting game and hope everything turns out fine. 🙂
I don't know what you're trying to say. Get to the point. 😍

Hey everyone!
I registered on this forum just so I could share my experience getting my nose done. I had my surgery the day before yesterday with Johnson. Honestly, leading up to the big day, I spent my time reading your posts, and I really appreciate how much you all helped ease my mind. I want to do the same for anyone else currently prepping for their own procedure.
I went in strictly for cosmetic reasons—my profile looked off because my nose was too long for my small face, especially with that little bump on the tip. It’s something I’ve wanted forever, but I never quite had the guts or the cash to pull the trigger. Eventually, something just clicked. I realized this desire wasn't going anywhere (I gave myself ten years to think about it!), so two months ago, I told myself: it's now or never. And I chose now. Most importantly, I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. No regrets.
Even though I'm still wearing the cast—which comes off in a few days—I can already see that beautiful, small shape I've always dreamed of.
I decided on Johnson right away, regardless of what some of you were saying about him. I never even considered Smith because I absolutely did not want anyone cutting that muscle above my lip (ugh, just thinking about it gives me the chills). As for Thompson, for some reason, he doesn't strike me as a top-tier expert, especially seeing how much he promotes himself through those Botox parties he organizes... plus, I read about poor Suzuki's experience...
Anyway, during my first consultation, Johnson told me straight up that I was a great candidate for a rhinoplasty. I didn't demand a specific look; I just told him I wanted a small, well-shaped nose that actually suits my face. He promised me we’d make it small and sexy, and that I'd be happy with the results. Honestly, it felt stupid to bring in a photo of someone else and say, "I want this." That's like going to a stylist and asking for a blowout when you have straw for hair.
The surgery itself went perfectly. Their anesthesia is top-notch; I woke up feeling like I’d been partying all night or just hadn't slept enough, but without any nausea or bruising on my arms. The Anesthesiologist is a wonderful doctor, and I want to give props to everyone working there. After the procedure, God spoke to me through the surgeon, basically telling me everything turned out great and I could sleep peacefully. Then I just finished my IV and headed home. I haven't had any pain at all. Removing the packing was the only slightly uncomfortable part—I have a pretty low pain tolerance, so I was a little nervous—but it was a quick moment and then it was over. This was actually my first surgery ever. I was completely calm because I wanted this so badly that nothing could shake me.
My parents complained about this for years. In the end, I just presented them with a fait accompli. We didn't even discuss it; I just told them, "I'm getting my nose done on this date." My dad broke into a sweat, and my mom was furious...
Looking back, I'd do it all again. I trusted Johnson, I never doubted him for a second, and I didn't know anyone who had a bad outcome with him. Knowing he's been operating on noses for 15 years was more than enough for me.
So, feel free to ask anything. I had a million questions before my surgery, and I found most of the answers right here.
And I'll leave you with the most important thing: it isn't nearly as scary as you think (provided you are certain about your decision).
:-)

Yeah, honestly, the only real annoyance in this whole ordeal was breathing through my nose. It was a bit rough during the second night because my mouth felt completely parched, but I'll get through it
e...it's just like what women say after giving birth—you go through hell, but once you see that tiny little thing, you forget all about the pain 🙂I've never had any breathing issues before, normally. As for the bruising, yeah, I've got them. I look like I took a few heavy hits from a heavyweight boxer... but again, I expected it to be worse. They're already starting to fade, and they weren't even all over my face, just these swollen dark circles under my eyes. They looked like little cushions at first—deep blue, then indigo, then purple, and now they're slowly turning yellow..

Sorry for any typos; I was trying to get all this down too fast and things got messy, but—you get the idea.

Donna Castillo7, I’m seriously so happy to hear you’re pleased with the results. My nose issue is identical to yours—it’s just way too long, especially with that little bump on top, and it feels endless whenever I laugh. You’ve truly given me the courage to go for it. Thanks! I’d be so grateful if you could shoot me a private message with some photos of your nose once the cast comes off!
Oh, and can someone please explain that muscle cutting technique Smith does during the surgery?

Noah Moore4, I’ll try to put something together using those photos... but don't go getting scared. I haven't let any of it get to me, regardless of the usual nonsense people spout; "you're beautiful as you are," "you don't need this," "it'll be over before you know it," or how they'll just give you some sedative before surgery so everything goes smoothly—as if that helps. Just great..
Even now, looking at myself with the mold—yellow and blue—I'm happy with my nose, but I honestly can't wait to see the final result.
When I was in for my consultation with Glisac, I didn't even get a chance to mention that my biggest annoyance is how my nose stretches out like a track when I laugh, and he just jumped right in; "Yeah, I bet it looks even longer when you smile..." The man already knew everything; I had nothing left to say..
Smith is going to excise the muscle above my upper jaw, right below the lip, specifically so the lip doesn't pull upward once he lifts the nose during the correction.. Try it yourself right now—use your finger to lift the tip of your nose—and you'll see exactly how it pulls your lip up.

Kimberly Baker13 said:Donna Castillo7, glad you're happy with the results. My nose issue is identical to yours. Mine is way too long with a weird bulbous tip, and when I laugh, it looks endless. You actually gave me some courage. Thanks! Send me a private message with some photos once you get that mold off!
Can someone explain this muscle cutting thing Smith does during surgery?

Regarding that muscle cutting Smith performs—that's exactly what I'm looking for. When I talk, my upper lip pulls on my nose, making the tip move around while I speak.😁
So I'm stoked if that gets fixed too.🙂

Zachary Nguyen29, sounds like a perfect choice for you then..

I have a question for those of you who have had your mold taken: based on your experience, how much does the nose actually change? Does it just shrink further, or has anyone seen it actually grow?

Zachary Nguyen29 Asks:
Just wanted to jump in on this discussion about muscle resection with Smith—that’s exactly what I’m looking into, too. My upper lip pulls at my nose whenever I talk, so that tip of my nose actually moves when I speak. 😁
Honestly, I'm just relieved that's finally getting taken care of—it'll be such a weight off my shoulders! 🙂

Does that mean my nose will still tilt downward when I smile—even after the correction—if they don't do that specific part of the procedure during surgery?

Donna Castillo7 said:Zachary Nguyen29, sounds like that's the perfect choice for you then..

I've got a question for anyone who’s actually gone through the molding process—based on what you've seen, how much does the nose really change? Does it just shrink, or has it actually grown for anyone else?

Honestly, you're going to see a lot of changes—and I'm guessing they'll be for the better....
In my case, things went up—even Dr. Shaw admitted it to me. When everything was still swollen, you couldn't even see what I'm looking at now that it's hardened. It's been four months, and because of that, I'm heading back in for another surgery soon;((
For me, it just looks all distorted—that's just how the body reacts to the process. Now they're going to break the bone and do a full reconstruction.
Please, if anyone has experience with this or knows someone who does—specifically regarding OPEN surgery—let me know.
I keep reading that they only go that route for really severe cases because the reconstruction allows them total access to the cartilage and the bones...........