Rhinoplasty, which is often called a “nose job,” is one of the top five plastic surgery procedures in the world. It’s known for its aesthetic benefits, but rhinoplasty can also help with the form and function of the nose. For example, it can help people with a deviated septum breathe easier, open airways to help relieve snoring and sleep apnea, and repair a broken nose due to trauma. Whatever your reason for pursuing a rhinoplasty, whether for aesthetic or functional purposes, one of the most important things you can do when preparing for your surgery is to research and understand what to do during your recovery period.
At Faces PLLC in Jackson, MS, Dr. Jordan will provide detailed instructions on how to guide you through your aftercare. To help you achieve the best possible results and assist you during your recovery, here are ten helpful tips to remember during your rhinoplasty recovery.
1. Follow All Aftercare Instructions
After your rhinoplasty, Dr. Jordan and his staff will provide instructions to follow throughout your recovery period, including when you can return to normal activities, what medications should be taken, how to care for your incision and change bandages, and an estimated timeline for your recovery. To heal properly and avoid infection or other complications, you must follow these instructions carefully and not push yourself while your body is healing.
2. Keep Your Head Elevated as Much as Possible
This will help with the swelling more than anything else you do. Stay sitting up or in a recliner with your head at 30 degrees or higher. During sleep, a recliner is optimal, but extra pillows are fine, too. You should do this for at least 2 weeks after surgery.
3. Take Time to Rest
Rest is crucial for the first week after surgery to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. If you attempt to do too much, your body will spend a lot of energy trying to keep you going that it could be spending on healing from your surgery. While resting, keep your head elevated to help with congestion and swelling. If rest doesn’t come easy, find a good book or a binge-worthy show to catch up on.
4. Stay on Top of the Pain
Dr. Jordan will provide you with pain medication to help ease discomfort. To manage pain effectively, create a schedule to take your medicine before the pain becomes unbearable. You’ll experience the most discomfort in the first few days after surgery. After that, pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications.
5. Report If Anything Feels Wrong
Dr. Jordan will be carefully monitoring your recovery through post-op appointments. Pay close attention to how you’re feeling, and if something feels off after your rhinoplasty, report it to Dr. Jordan immediately or mention it at your follow-up appointments. It’s best to address any complications early.
6. Ice Liberally
Swelling is completely normal after a rhinoplasty, especially during the first two days. A cold compress applied to the cheeks and forehead—not directly on the nose—can help alleviate swelling and ease discomfort. The ice should be used for 20 minutes at a time, with 20-minute rests between applications.
7. Plan Ahead
Plan for your surgery by preparing meals, asking for help if you have children, and getting assistance driving to post-op appointments. Planning ahead means you have fewer things to worry about during your recovery. You’ll have easy access to nutritious meals and won’t have to worry if your children or family are taken care of for the first week. Avoid situations that may cause trauma, such as placing a small child on your lap where your nose could be hit.
8. Avoid Wearing Glasses
Glasses put pressure on the nose, leading to bruising and even leaving permanent indentations in the nose while you’re healing from a rhinoplasty. This includes sunglasses, reading glasses, and prescription glasses. For the first week, wear contact lenses or light-framed glasses. Ask Dr. Jordan for advice if you need glasses during your recovery.
9. Don’t Blow Your Nose
It can be tempting to blow your nose from all the congestion after a rhinoplasty, but you must refrain for the first week after your surgery. Use saline nasal sprays instead to clear excess mucus and protect your healing nose. You may sniff or very gently blow your nose but do not blow it forcefully as this may cause bleeding.
10. Don’t Smoke or Drink
Smoking is terrible for your health, but avoiding tobacco products for six weeks before and after your surgery is especially important. Nicotine limits blood flow, slowing down your healing process and making you more susceptible to complications or infections. Alcohol dehydrates your body, stealing essential nutrients your body needs to heal quickly and effectively. Skip alcoholic or high-sugar beverages and stay hydrated with plenty of water.
Schedule Your Rhinoplasty Consultation with Dr. Jordan
Dr. Jordan uses two different approaches for rhinoplasty: open and closed. An open rhinoplasty involves an incision along the columella, or the soft tissue that separates the nostrils. A closed rhinoplasty involves incisions made inside the nose. During your consultation, Dr. Jordan will help you choose the best option based on your particular anatomy and desired results. To schedule an appointment, call our office at (601) 607-3033 or complete our online contact form today.