Are you considering rhinoplasty surgery? This is a major decision that can have a transformative impact on your appearance and self-confidence.
However, it’s important to remember that the surgery is just the beginning of your journey.
Recovery is also an essential part of it, and if you want to ensure a speedy and successful healing process, you’ll need to follow these 17 tips!
You might be feeling great after surgery and eager to get back to your normal routine, but it’s important to avoid any strenuous activity or exercise for at least the first week.
This includes activities like running, lifting weights, contact sports, and even yoga or Pilates.
Any activity that puts too much strain on your nose can cause bleeding, swelling, and other complications.
Patients can usually return to the gym in the third week after the procedure and gradually increase the workout time and intensity each week.
Swimming must be avoided for the first four weeks. There is an increased pressure on the nose when diving and public pools may cause infections to healing incisions inside your nose.
This may also sound awkward, but unfortunately, sexual activities should also be minimized during the first two weeks.
One of the most common mistakes patients make during rhinoplasty recovery is blowing their nose too forcefully.
Remember that your nose is still healing, so you need to be gentle with it! Forcing air through your nostrils can cause bleeding and swelling.
If you have to sneeze, do so with your mouth open as this will help relieve pressure on your nose.
You can shower the day after your rhinoplasty surgery, but be sure to avoid hot water and direct streams of water on your face.
It’s a good idea to reduce the water temperature so you get less steam you may breathe in through your nose.
Make sure your nasal plasters do not get wet in the first 5-7 days until they are removed.
One of the best ways to reduce swelling is by using cold compression.
This can be done with ice packs or frozen peas wrapped in a cloth.
Apply the compressions to your cheeks for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Avoid directly applying the compression to the surgical area.
You should start seeing results within the first few days.
It’s important to avoid direct sun exposure during your recovery period as this can cause the skin around your nose to become irritated and inflamed.
Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when you go outside, and make sure to reapply it every two hours.
If you’re going to be spending a lot of time outdoors, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face from the sun.
You might not realize it, but chewing is a form of exercise!
During the first week after surgery, you should avoid chewing as much as possible. This includes gum, hard candy, and crunchy foods.
Not only will this help minimize pain and swelling, but it will also prevent you from accidentally biting your lip or tongue.
You can gradually start reintroducing these foods back into your diet in the second week.
While you might be tempted to reach for your favorite comfort foods during recovery, it’s best to avoid spicy dishes.
Spicy foods can cause irritation and bleeding in the surgical area. If you’re craving something hot, opt for milder alternatives like soups and stews.
A healthy diet is essential for proper healing after any surgery. Eating balanced meals will help your body heal faster and reduce the risk of infection.
Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
These foods are packed with vitamins and minerals that will help your body recover.
Protein intake is also important, you can get this from lean meats, poultry, fish, tofu, and legumes.
Here is our full guide on eating after rhinoplasty.
It’s important to stay hydrated after surgery, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
The recommended daily intake is eight glasses, but you might need more depending on your activity level and the climate.
If you’re feeling thirsty, drink up! Dehydration can cause complications and delay the healing process.
Anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen and aspirin can thin the blood and cause bleeding.
They may also cause increased swelling and adversely affect the healing process.
For this reason, it’s important to avoid these medications unless instructed otherwise by your surgeon.
Smoking and alcohol must be avoided during the recovery period as they can cause inflammation and bleeding.
They can also delay the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
If you smoke, it’s important to quit at least two weeks before surgery. And if you drink alcohol, you should abstain for at least three weeks.
Walking is a great way to speed up the recovery process. It helps increase circulation and prevent blood clots from forming.
Start with short walks around the house, and gradually increase your distance as you feel more comfortable.
You should be able to return to your normal activity level within four to six weeks.
T-shirts, pullovers, and any other clothing items you put on over your head can rub against your nose and cause irritation.
Instead, opt for wearing button-down shirts to make it easier to get dressed without putting strain on your nose.
Wearing glasses over your nose can put pressure on the healing area and cause pain.
If you need to wear glasses, tape them to the forehead or use contact lenses instead.
You should be able to return to wearing glasses, as usual, four to six weeks after surgery.
Your body needs time to heal, so make sure you get plenty of rest.
Sleep with your head elevated on two or three pillows to reduce swelling.
You should also avoid sleeping on your side or stomach as this can put unnecessary pressure on your nose.
Recovery from rhinoplasty can take several weeks, so it’s important to be patient.
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see results right away. It takes time for the swelling to subside and for the final results to become apparent.
It’s important to follow all of your surgeon’s instructions during the recovery period.
This includes taking all prescribed medications, using any ointments or creams as directed, and attending all follow-up appointments.
If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgeon.
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