Rhinoplasty, or nose job, is a plastic surgery to change the shape and size of your nose. It is one of the most common plastic surgeries worldwide with a relatively low downtime. However, there are some steps you can take to speed up your recovery. To ensure the best results, you can find trusted rhinoplasty specialists on Doctify who will guide you through safe surgery and proper aftercare.
Rhinoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure for reshaping the nose to improve aesthetics or function. The process is done by skilled plastic surgeons who will put a small incision below or inside the nose and recontour the bone and cartilage.
Rhinoplasty may be necessary for various reasons, including a crooked nose, improving appearance, a deviated septum, or a broken nose. Regardless of the reason for getting one, the aftercare is similar.
In this article, you will learn how to take care of your nose after surgery and reduce any swelling, inflammation, or pain.
What To Expect In The First Week After Rhinoplasty
The first week after any surgery is the most difficult. For Rhinoplasty, you can expect significant swelling in the first week.
Since the nose tissue is reshaped in rhinoplasty, the doctors will place a small splint to maintain the new shape of your nose. It will remain in place for approximately one to two weeks.
Apart from the splint, surgeons will often keep cotton gauze inside your nostrils. It’s similar to the packs one uses for nosebleeds. It works the same way to control any bleeding from your nose. You can remove the gauze in a day.
Immediately after surgery, you should not feel any pain. However, after the anaesthesia subsides, the area will become more sore and painful. The doctor will have given you some painkillers to manage the pain and prevent any infection. Take them routinely to reduce pain.
You may experience some swelling around your nose during the first few days. It is completely normal, and the majority of it will subside within a few days. Avoid poking or touching your bandages. Only change them if directed. The swelling might reach around your eyes. This is normal unless it persists for days. You might also experience some nasal congestion. It also goes away after a few days.
Your doctor will likely ask you to rest and avoid strenuous activity for a week or so. Since your nose cannot function to its fullest during recovery, engaging in heavy exercise is risky. In particular, activities such as jogging, swimming, or running can negatively impact the healing process.
Reducing Swelling After Rhinoplasty Effectively
The swelling from a Rhinoplasty Typically takes about a year to subside fully. However, here are some steps to reduce the swelling effectively.
- Do not apply cold compresses to your nose for the first 48 hours, unless instructed to do so by a doctor.
- Keep your head elevated. Use extra pillows while in bed.
- Avoiding sodium-rich food will prevent excess swelling. Avoid alcohol and smoking for faster healing.
- Take baths and gentle face cleaning. Do not expose the wound to too hot/cold water. When brushing, take care not to pull on your upper lip.
- Do not sneeze through your nose. If necessary, keep your mouth open to avoid extra pressure on your nose.
- Eat food that is high in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Do not put any pressure on your nose. That includes glasses, any pressure packs, bandages (don’t pull them), etc. It will make the swelling worse.
Breathing Better During Recovery
Since Rhinoplasty involves operating on the inner structures of the nose, it is common to have swelling and blockage in the nostrils for weeks to months after surgery.
You should be able to breathe normally after a week. However, there might be blood clots and mucus blocking your nostrils. Use a gentle saline spray to keep your nasal passages moist and clear. Don’t blow. The blockage will clear on its own. You can use a humidifier at home to prevent your nostrils from drying out excessively. For most people, nasal congestion clears within a few weeks.
Healing After Rhinoplasty
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to healing after surgery. For most people, the nasal splint is removed after a week. There may be some discharge, so the doctor might give you gauze to place under your nose. Within a month, you should be able to go back to your everyday life.
Even if your nose looks healed, continue to use SPF 30+ sunscreen on your nose and face. Also, avoid wearing clothes that might press on your nose when putting them on. Also, avoid scrubbing or aggressively rubbing your nose.
What to Watch Out For?
Some bleeding is expected after surgery. But, it should seep out, not gush. If you notice excessive bleeding after Rhinoplasty, contact your surgeon immediately. Also, keep a lookout for high fever or severe pain. Some pain and soreness are fine, but if it is not manageable with over-the-counter medications, it is better to contact your surgeon.
Conclusion
For cosmetic surgery, recovery is just as important as the surgery itself for achieving optimum results. Ensure you take good care of your nose for optimal results. If your symptoms do not improve, or if you notice unusual pain or bleeding, it is important to seek advice from your surgeon.
For the best care, consider finding a rhinoplasty specialist through Doctify to receive the right diagnosis, aftercare advice, and a treatment plan tailored to you.
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