What to Expect during the Recovery from Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is an extremely rewarding procedure. It can bring your nose into better proportion with the rest of your face or correct a nasal feature or abnormality that bothers you. But before you can enjoy your outcomes, you must plan for the recovery.
Take a moment to learn what you can expect during rhinoplasty recovery from Dr. Alexander Ereso.
Immediately after Surgery
After rhinoplasty surgery, your nose will be bandaged and a splint may be placed over your nose to support it as it heals. There may be packing inside your nose to provide additional support.
Your nose and the area around your eyes will be bruised and swollen, and you may have some discomfort. You should take pain medication as prescribed by Dr. Ereso to manage the discomfort and avoid any serious pain.
Right after surgery, you should have a friend or family member drive you home and help you get into a comfortable resting position. You may feel groggy or sleepy from the anesthesia and will probably want to sleep for the rest of the day.
The First Few Days after Surgery
In the first few days following your surgery, your energy will slowly come back. You should spend most of your time resting, and refrain from bending, lifting or doing anything that could raise your heart rate.
You should keep your head elevated higher than your chest at all times to minimize bleeding and swelling. Avoid blowing your nose or getting it wet while it is bandaged. If you wear glasses, you should not rest them on your nose as it heals (you can tape them to your forehead or use cheek rests). Also, you must avoid exposing your nose to direct sunlight as it heals, and wear sunscreen when going outside.
You will see Dr. Ereso a few days after your surgery to remove your nasal splint or packing. The doctor will also check your healing progress.
General Recovery Timeframe
Everyone recovers at their own pace, and there is no reason to rush back into your normal routine until you feel ready. Most patients resume work, school and non-strenuous activities one to two weeks after surgery. Strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for three to six weeks, depending on Dr. Ereso’s instructions.
You will be able to see an improvement in your nose as the swelling subsides. Most of the swelling should resolve within the first few weeks, but it can take up to a year for minor swelling to resolve and your nasal contour to stabilize.
Learn More about the Rhinoplasty Recovery Process
If you have any questions about recovering from rhinoplasty, or if you would like to schedule a rhinoplasty consultation with our plastic surgeons, please call or email us today.
