How to Achieve a Successful Rhinoplasty Recovery

If you are considering undergoing rhinoplasty, you may be understandably concerned about the recovery involved in the procedure. Patients can typically resume normal activities within one to two weeks following their rhinoplasty surgery, with a full recovery typically occurring after approximately one month. During a pre-surgical evaluation at his Pittsburgh, PA, practice, your surgeon will answer any questions you may have about the procedure, and carefully explain what to expect during your rhinoplasty recovery. He will also provide you with a list of post-operative instructions to follow to assist you with your recovery. These are not simply suggestions, and they should be diligently followed to help you avoid complications. Your results can completely depend on how closely you follow these instructions.

Immediately Following Surgery

Like many other facial cosmetic procedures, rhinoplasty is considered an outpatient surgery, so you will be able to return home the same day. Due to the nature of the procedure, you will need to have someone drive you to and from the surgery. Immediately following the procedure, you will likely feel groggy and nauseous. As the anesthesia wears off, you may also experience some soreness and pressure in your face. This is completely normal. Taking your medications as directed and resting with your head elevated can help alleviate your discomfort. We also recommend applying a soft ice pack to reduce swelling. Other side effects can include headaches, swelling, and nosebleeds.

Week One of Recovery

During your first week, extensive bruising is normal. Keeping your head elevated when resting can help reduce these effects. It is imperative that you do not blow or try to breathe through your nose as it could disrupt the incisions. Your nose will likely be packed with gauze or other materials to hold the surgical site in place and to reduce any bleeding. Your surgeon will remove any non-dissolvable sutures, splints, and nasal packing approximately seven to 10 days after surgery. He will carefully examine the results of your procedure and monitor you for any signs of infection. He will also instruct you how to keep the incisions clean and free from infection. This generally includes avoiding facial cosmetics and certain skincare products.

Although light walking is encouraged to promote healthy blood flow, all strenuous activity should be avoided for at least two weeks. This includes heavy lifting, bending over, or any activity that would cause overexertion. You will also need to avoid wearing eyeglasses of any kind as the added pressure could disrupt the surgical site.

During a pre-surgical evaluation, your surgeon will answer any questions you may have about the procedure. He will also provide you with a list of post-operative instructions to follow to assist you with your recovery.

Week Two of Recovery and Beyond

As the swelling and bruising subsides, most patients feel comfortable returning to work and normal activity by this time. Some physical activity can also be resumed. However, any activity, such as contact sports, that could result in injury to the face should be avoided for at least eight weeks.

It is not uncommon to experience some numbness and tingling around your nose throughout your recovery. This will continue to subside as your nose heals. Although you may notice a vast improvement in the appearance of your nose, it could take up a to a year or more to enjoy final results.

Helpful Tips to Follow During Your Recovery

The following tips can help assist you in your recovery:

• Rest as much as possible during the first few days, being mindful of keeping your head elevated. Overexertion could cause a delay in your recovery.
• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
• Avoid strenuous activity for at least two weeks and contact sports for eight weeks.
• Be aware of signs of infections, such as increased pain, excessive bleeding, redness, and fever. Contact our office right away if you notice any of these.
• Have a loved one assist you for the first few days of your recovery.
• Avoid bumping or touching your nose for the first two weeks.
• Take medications as prescribed to reduce pain.
• Don’t skip your follow-up appointments.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are interested in learning more about rhinoplasty and its benefits, contact our practice online today. You can also schedule a consultation by calling our office at (866) 241-0364.