Recovery from Rhinoplasty can be a process, especially if you are not accustomed to taking downtime. But with a few simple tips, your recovery process can go as smooth as possible.
Take Care of Your Nose
Taking care of your nose may seem like an obvious suggestion for rhinoplasty recovery. However, if you are not careful about nasal care, you can cause issues and lengthen your recovery. One tip for caring for your nose is to avoid rubbing it; even if it is difficult to do so.
You will want to avoid blowing your nose for the first two weeks (check with your doctor). You can use a tissue to gently wipe your nose if you need to do so. Be careful about sneezing as well. You’ll want to do that with an open mouth.
Get Plenty of Rest
Rhinoplasty is surgery, so you will require extra rest as you recover. If you feel tired, even during the day, rest. Get plenty of sleep at night. Sleep is highly beneficial to a proper recovery and healing.
Part of resting is refraining from strenuous activity. That includes hobbies and fitness activities. You’ll want to stay away from work for a minimum 3-7 days. Your surgeon will let you know if you need additional time away from work or activities.
Keeping your head elevated will help reduce swelling. You should keep your head above your heart even when sleeping. You can do this by using extra pillows behind your head when you go to sleep, or by sleeping in a chair that reclines.
Be Patient
Swelling can last months after having nasal surgery. Some patients experience mild swelling for as long as a year. Most people will not notice the swelling after a couple of months, but you may notice the swelling yourself for a while.
While swelling is present, you may be unable to tell what the final shape of your nose will be. As you recover, and the swelling reduces, you will begin to recognize what your new nasal shape is. Be patient during this process and remember that the swelling is temporary.
Conclusion
Rhinoplasty is surgery. As with any surgery, you will require adequate time to recover. Sometimes, recovery can seem extremely hard. There are things you can do to make that recovery go more easily.
The first thing you need to do is realize that your nose, and possibly around your eyes, will remain swollen for a while. To help with the swelling, you can sleep in a more upright position, and use ice around the nose. Get plenty of rest including limiting some routine activities. Follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully. Take care of your nose for the easiest possible recovery from rhinoplasty.
