Recovery
Rhinoplasty can involve several weeks of recovery, and patients should take special steps to enhance their recovery and ensure good aesthetic results.
The First Several Days
During the first 48 hours after surgery, it is important to get plenty of rest.
In particular, patients should:
1.Sleep with their heads elevated
2.Wear clothes that button, rather than go on over the head
3.Brush their teeth gently to avoid irritating the upper lip and nose
4.Keep their faces still as much as possible
5.Apply cold compresses to the nose and mid-face
6.Eat soft foods that still have plenty of nutrients and fiber
7.Take baths, rather than showers, while the bandages remain in place
8.Avoid blowing their noses
9.Change bandages and gauze, as instructed by their doctors
The First Several Weeks
Typically, patients can return to work within two weeks of your surgeries. However, they should continue to monitor their activity level and protect the tender nasal tissues. Among other things, patients should:
1.Avoid strenuous exercise until otherwise instructed by their surgeons
3.Limit sodium intake to reduce post-surgical swelling
4.Wear sunscreen with at least 30 SPF whenever they go outside
5.Not wear glasses or sunglasses for at least four weeks (if needed, patients can use chin rests to support the frames)
It is especially important for patients to make routine follow-up appointments with their surgeons. Usually, the first appointment will take place one week after surgery. At this time, doctors will typically remove any stitches and nasal packing. Then patients will have periodic checkups for the next several months.