POST-SURGICAL CARE

What to expect with your rhinoplasty surgery

Rhinoplasty surgery is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. In addition to the nose itself, the eyelid region may become quite swollen and bruised. Only patients who have airway procedures at the same time will have nasal packing, which is removed in the first few days. There is usually some type of external splint which adheres to the nose; this is removed five to eight days after surgery. Any stitches inside the nose dissolve, while those externally are removed at the same time as the splint. The incisions are very well hidden across the columella, the fleshy structure between the nostrils, and internally in the nose. The final result may not be apparent for several months and it usually takes a full year to completely appreciate the final result.

3-12 Months

Until Final Result.

10 Things

to Know About.
YOUR POST-OP CHECKLIST

Your care plan to follow

  • REST
    After your rhinoplasty, you will need to rest for the first few days to allow your body to recover. Avoid any strenuous activities or lifting heavy objects for at least two weeks after surgery. Also, keep your head elevated while resting or sleeping to reduce swelling.

  • MANAGE PAIN
    You may experience some pain and discomfort after surgery. You should have a prescription for pain medication to help manage your discomfort. Take the medication as directed, and do not take any other medication without consulting us.

  • APPLY ICE
    Swelling is a common side effect of rhinoplasty. Applying ice to your eyes and cheeks can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Use an ice pack wrapped in a towel and apply it to your nose for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Be sure to avoid direct contact with the ice pack to prevent skin damage. DO NOT APPLY ICE DIRECTLY TO YOUR NOSE.

    Bruising will occur to varying degrees after rhinoplasty. If you tend to bruise easily you can apply arnica montana cream under your eyes immediately after surgery and 4 times per day thereafter until the bruising goes away.  Drinking pineapple juice also helps with bruising.

    You will have tapes and a metal splint on your nose. You may have packing or a silicone sheet inside your nose.  Please leave these alone and wait until they are removed in the office.  If something happens to either the outside splint of the inside splint, please call the office and notify us.

  • KEEP YOUR NOSE CLEAN
    Keeping your nose clean is essential after rhinoplasty. A Q-tip soaked in hydrogen peroxide works well to help break up crusting and dry blood inside your nose.  Vaseline can be applied as well to help soften the dry blood and crust beforehand if needed.  Your doctor will provide specific instructions on how to do this safely, such as using saline solution or a nasal spray to rinse your nose gently.

  • AVOID BLOWING YOUR NOSE
    Blowing your nose can cause bleeding and swelling, so avoid doing so for at least four weeks after surgery. Instead, gently wipe your nose with a tissue.

  • AVOID PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES
    Avoid any activities that could cause trauma to your nose, including contact sports, running, and heavy lifting, for at least four weeks after surgery. You should also avoid bending over or performing any activity that puts your head below your heart.

  • WEAR PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
    If you need to go outside, wear protective clothing such as a hat and sunglasses to protect your nose from the sun. Be sure to apply sunscreen to your face and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, as this can cause swelling and delay healing.

  • FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS
    You will need to schedule follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and remove any stitches. Follow-up appointments are essential to ensure that your nose is healing correctly, and any potential issues are addressed promptly.

  • AVOID ALCOHOL AND SMOKING
    Smoking and alcohol can slow down your healing process, so it’s best to avoid them for at least two weeks after surgery. Smoking, including second hand smoke, can cause major complications and affect the outcome of your surgery and should be avoided four weeks before and at least four weeks after surgery.

  • BE PATIENT
    It may take several weeks or months to see the full results of your rhinoplasty. Be patient and follow your instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome. If you have any concerns or questions about your recovery, contact your doctor immediately.