Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) is a surgical procedure preferred for both aesthetic and functional reasons. However, the post-surgery process is just as important as the operation itself. Proper care and patience not only speed up recovery but also help you achieve the desired outcome. In this article, you will find all the information you need to navigate the post-rhinoplasty period more comfortably.
First Week: Patience and Rest
After the surgery, you should give your body time to heal. Here are some situations you might encounter and things to keep in mind:
Possible Situations
- Swelling and Bruising: Bruising around the eyes and nose may occur. It usually peaks within 2-3 days and decreases within a week.
- Mild Pain: You may feel mild discomfort after the operation. The medications prescribed by your doctor will help with this.
- Congestion: Nasal congestion due to the tampon and swelling is possible, but this is temporary.
What You Should Do
- Rest: Sleep with your head elevated, and use extra pillows to reduce swelling.
- Cold Compress: You can apply a cold compress around your eyes during the first two days after surgery.
- Follow Doctor’s Recommendations: Take your prescribed medications on time.
What You Should Avoid
- Do not touch or rub your nose.
- Avoid blowing your nose.
- Avoid bending over and lifting heavy objects.
Splints and Tampons
The equipment used to protect your nose after surgery includes:
- External Splint: Keeps the new shape of the nose and is typically removed within 7-10 days.
- Internal Tampons: Positioned inside the nose and may make breathing difficult, but are usually removed within a short period.
Keeping Your Nose Clean and Healthy
Post-surgery hygiene is crucial:
- Saline Spray: Keep your nose moist to prevent scabbing.
- Gentle Cleaning: You can use hydrogen peroxide and antibiotic cream to clean the tip of your nose.
- Avoid Blowing Your Nose: Avoid putting pressure on your nose and wait for the healing process to progress correctly.
Post-Surgery Massage
For some patients, nasal massage may be beneficial upon the doctor’s recommendation. This massage can help reduce swelling and promote faster healing of tissues. However, you should always consult your doctor about when and how to perform the massage. Improper massage can negatively affect the healing process.
Returning to Daily Life
- When can I return to work?: You can typically return to light work after 1 week.
- When can I exercise?: You should wait 2-3 weeks for light exercises and get approval from your doctor for intensive workouts.
Eyeglasses Use
Eyeglasses can put pressure on the nose and hinder recovery. Avoid wearing glasses on your nose during the first 12 weeks.
Reducing Swelling and Bruising
- Keep Your Head Elevated: Support your head position while sleeping.
- Avoid Salty Foods: Limit your salt intake to reduce water retention in the body.
- Be Patient: Complete healing of the nose may take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year.
Skin Care and Sun Protection
- Be Careful with Sun Exposure: Protect your nose from the sun after surgery, and use sunscreen.
- Gentle Care: Avoid harsh cleansers that may irritate your nose.
When Should You Contact Your Doctor?
While some symptoms are considered normal, others may indicate serious complications:
- Normal Symptoms: Light bleeding, pink discharge, swelling, and mild tenderness in the nose.
When to See a Doctor:
- Excessive bleeding.
- Persistent severe pain.
- Fever above 38°C or signs of infection.
- Sudden difficulty breathing.
The recovery process after rhinoplasty requires careful care and patience. By following your doctor’s advice, you can ensure a comfortable and successful healing process.
