Tips For Recovery
Get Lots Of Rest
Getting plenty of sleep is important for anyone, but is especially important when your body is healing. Your body uses far less energy and resources while you’re sleeping which allows the body to focus on and promote healing in areas that need it. Sleep with your head elevated for the first week (extra 1-2 pillows). Try to sleep on your back for the first week but if you wake up in the morning and are not on your back, you are fine. Resting is important but we also recommend light walks — no more than 15-20 minutes. Gentle walking helps decrease swelling and improve blood circulation. It also makes you and your body feel better.
Reduce Swelling
Your nose is most likely going to be swollen after rhinoplasty. This is the body’s natural reaction to a surgical procedure. However, it’s best to do what we can to reduce that swelling. Keep your head elevated to approximately 45 degrees for the first week (at least above the level of the heart). It’s recommended that you gently ice your nose and for the first 3 days apply cool compresses to your eyes to decrease swelling. The light 15-20 minute walks will also help with swelling.
Keep It Healthy
Your diet and water intake are important to rhinoplasty recovery. Your body needs the right amount of water and nutrients to heal as efficiently as possible. Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water during your recovery period.
Using a Humidifier
It is extremely important that the inside of your nose is moist. A humidifier can be helpful to prevent dry crusting inside the nose and prevent a dry mouth/throat from mouth breathing when asleep.
Avoid Nose Contact
Your nose has to heal after rhinoplasty and needs to be as undisturbed as possible. This means you should avoid blowing your nose, touching your nose, and anything else that brings unneeded nose contact. Do not blow your nose for 2 weeks after surgery. Use the nasal rinse if you feel stuffy. Avoid glasses resting on your nose for 1 month after surgery (you can use rhinoshields or other devices to rest the glasses). You can safely wear contacts.
Trust the Professionals
As mentioned before, the most important thing is to follow your surgeon’s instructions. Our team at West End Plastic Surgery understands that cosmetic procedures don’t end with surgery but when our patient is fully healed and satisfied. Our staff will walk you through every step of the surgical process and make sure you’re sent home with all the information you need to have a successful recovery. We will then continue with follow-up appointments to ensure healing is going appropriately. Contact West End Plastic Surgery at 202-785-4187 for a team of doctors dedicated to surgical success.
