Nasal stuffiness due to swelling is a primary side effect of rhinoplasty, but most people experience little pain after the procedure. An over-the-counter pain medication should relieve any discomfort felt in the first few days. Post-surgery, expect a splint to stay in place for up to a week. That is how long most patients decide to stay home from work. The surgeon then removes the splint, but the nose may retain swelling for up to six weeks. For most patients, the swelling becomes relatively minor after two weeks. When surgery involves the nasal septum, nasal packing or an internal septal splint may be used for the first 48 hours. The area around the eyes remains discolored for several days, but after that, makeup concealer will hide any traces. While most people in relatively sedentary occupations can resume work within a week after surgery, it is important to avoid any strenuous exercise for at least three weeks. Those whose jobs involve a lot of physical labor may have to stay home from work longer. The final result of rhinoplasty is not apparent for a while. Minor swelling in the nose may persist for several months, and only when this swelling subsides are the results complete.