Exercise After Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose to make it more proportionate by correcting nasal humps, refining the nasal tip, or any other nasal defect, such as a crooked nose. When nose surgery is completed, any vigorous exercise is typically avoided, which our Surgeon will advise after the procedure has been completed. But a few patients do remain curious as to what can and can’t be done, when can they resume full training and what should be avoided after a Rhinoplasty surgery. Here is further insight on exercise after rhinoplasty:
Resuming Vitamins/Minerals and Exercise-Related Supplements
It is OK to resume all exercise supplements 48 hours after your surgery, but during this time, as mentioned above, returning to the gym is not recommended in the first 7 days, so it’s best to resume all supplements from day 7 after surgery onwards.
Returning to the Gym
Once the nasal splint has been removed, it is advised to have a 24hr break from any exercise. After this short period, you can return to the gym. Stepping machines, running machines, and rowing machines (on the most accessible setting) are acceptable to resume. It is essential that any intense training between days 8-21 after your Rhinoplasty will increase your blood circulation, which may increase the risk of nasal bleeding. Always keep in a well-ventilated area and hydrated, and gradually build the intensity of your workout as the weeks pass.
Light Cardio
We encourage patients to resume light walking between days 3-7 after a Rhinoplasty. Keeping mobile will continuously improve circulation, which aids in the initial recovery of bruising and swelling. It is not advised to do anything but light walking for up to 1-2 hours a day within the first 7 days after your Rhinoplasty.
Weightlifting (Intense Cardio)
Returning to weights and any machines that work any specific muscles at a higher intensity should be avoided for 4-6 weeks after a Rhinoplasty. Using a lighter weight with fewer repetitions before this is OK, but in general, focus more on the recovery of the nose and keep off any weights for at least 4 weeks.
Swimming / Spa
For swimming, a 4-week waiting period is recommended, and during this time window, our surgeons prefer that you stay off any exercise routine in the pool.
Swimming, Sauna and Steam Room, all have the potential risk to cause nose bleeding from hot air and nasal infection from water bacteria in the first 4 weeks after having a Rhinoplasty and while your internal incision fully heal.
The impact of any pressure will be swelling around the nose, which can further delay your healing time. For this reason, it is better to take your time and allow for healing before returning to your regular schedule.
Flying
It is vital to always abide by the post-care instructions after rhinoplasty or any surgery for that matter. Flying should be avoided until after the first week of surgery as both cabin pressure and altitude may cause weak nasal blood vessels to leak and cause minor bleeding whilst on your flight. Another concern with flying is the dryness of the air and, as a result, it is advisable to sterilise your nose a couple of times during your flight. Aqueous nasal sprays are very helpful in this situation. Patients are permitted to fly in the first week after a Rhinoplasty but do check this over with your surgeon as the nasal splint, stitches and certain medication (including aqueous nasal sprays) can be adjusted accordingly, as your surgeon sees fit.
The Nose Exercise Myth!
With regards to exercise after Rhinoplasty, most surgeons do hear the odd question of nose exercises, such as frowning and moving the nose up and down to keep the blood circulation in the nose constant and recovery as quick as possible. This is not medically proven and without any clinical evidence. Try to wait out your full rest period and avoid touching or trying to apply any therapy to the nose.
If you have any specific work routine or questions related to your workouts after undergoing a Rhinoplasty with us, please get in touch with us at info@berkeleysquaremedical.com.
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