Rhinoplasty is a common procedure performed to change the shape of the nose. For example, one could get plastic surgery in Dallas to improve appearance or correct breathing issues caused due to a birth defect or injury.
For optimal results, ensure you follow the rhinoplasty recovery suggestions. Regardless of the type of nose job and patient, recovery could be long and exhausting. Thus, it is essential you go into surgery well informed and prepared. The global market for rhinoplasty surgery in 2020 was valued at $6.2 billion.
Questions You Should Ask Your Surgeon about Rhinoplasty Recovery
What to expect right after getting a nose job?
The first 72 hours after getting a nose job are the most challenging. Some of the common symptoms that may present themselves are:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Headache
- Congestion
You might be prescribed medication for managing the pain post-surgery. A cold compress applied to the nose every hour you are awake could also help manage the other symptoms.
For the first week after surgery, you should avoid lying down flat and performing any strenuous activity.
How long will it take for rhinoplasty recovery?
The recovery period after a nose surgery will vary from patient to patient. The post-surgery symptoms should subside after 72 hours and will disappear on their own within a few days. Your bandages and cast can be removed a week after the surgery.
You need to be patient with your recovery. It could take anywhere from a year or two before you can see the full results of your treatment. In the meantime, ensure you visit your surgeon for regular follow-up appointments.
What should you do for a speedy and stable nose job recovery?
Here are some things one should avoid after rhinoplasty surgery:
- Laying down flat or bending your head forward for a minimum of two weeks.
- Strenuous workout or exercise routine.
- Heavy lifting.
- Wearing glasses or sunglasses.
Here are some things one should do after a rhinoplasty surgery.
- Using hydrogen peroxide to clean surgical incisions at least once a day.
- Keep your head elevated while resting or sleeping.
- Take time off from work or school and get plenty of rest.
- Maintain a healthy diet to speed up the healing process.
- Restart your workout regimen only after getting medical clearance from your surgeon.
What are the risks associated with rhinoplasty?
Some of the risks associated with nose surgery are:
- Scarring
- Swelling
- Nosebleeds
- Numbness around the nose
- Breathing difficulty
You must visit a qualified and experienced surgeon and discuss with them in detail what to expect before, during, and after the surgery. Rhinoplasty recovery can be daunting; it is best to clear your concerns beforehand, to avoid stressful situations later on.
Are follow-up appointments necessary after nose surgery?
Follow-up appointments are necessary as they provide your surgeon the opportunity to monitor and ensure your recovery is on track. Depending on your condition, you will be required to see your surgeon frequently during the first few weeks after the surgery. Then the appointments could be spaced two to three months apart.
If you do end up developing any complications, later on, your surgeon can catch the issues during these appointments and treat them before they escalate.
Do you have to change your sleeping position during recovery?
For the first weeks into rhinoplasty recovery, it is recommended you do not lay flat down or on your side. The position could put pressure on your sensitive nose and could also end up displacing bones.
Keeping your head elevated would be the ideal way to sleep post-surgery. You could use multiple pillows at night to keep your head at a height and reduce any swelling or puffiness.
Will you have to deal with breathing issues during the recovery process?
Breathing difficulty is one of the risks associated with rhinoplasty but not an unavoidable side-effect that every patient will suffer from. It is a myth that patients cannot breathe properly through their noses after getting surgery. You can breathe as usual right after the surgery.
You may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, but that will not affect your breathing ability. Do not expect breathing issues as an obvious side-effect; consult your surgeon immediately in case of any concerns.
Rhinoplasty recovery can be an overwhelming experience; thus, you must have a well-trained and experienced surgeon by your side. Any symptoms you notice post-surgery will subside and gradually disappear in a few weeks. Ensure you make time for all follow-up appointments and practice the health recommendations for a safe and speedy recovery process.
