Are you preparing for rhinoplasty? In just a few weeks you’ll be enjoying a nose that looks and functions better. Unfortunately, before you can enjoy that new nose, you’ll need to go through surgery and recovery. This guide will help you prepare for the recovery process. Don’t worry; many of our patients are pleasantly surprised by how easy the recovery process actually is.

Right After Surgery

Rhinoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient basis, which means that you’ll be able to return home shortly after surgery. You’ll need someone to drive you and stay with you during the initial hours and days of your recovery. You’ll likely feel swollen, sore, and puffy on the face and nose. We’ll provide pain medications to help you rest more comfortably and detailed instructions for your recovery.

These tips will help you during the initial stages of your recovery.

• Fill Your Prescriptions in Advance– If you can, fill your prescriptions before surgery. That way you won’t have to worry about it on your way home from the surgical center.
• Stock Up on Lip Balm and Cool Drinks– After your surgery you’ll need to breathe through your mouth for a few days. Your mouth will feel very dry. Cool drinks and lip balm are essential.
• Have Soft Foods Ready– You’ll likely want to consume soft, easy-to-eat foods for a few days. Some patients feel nauseous right after surgery. Choose options that are gentle on the tummy, just in case.
• Don’t Smoke– Smoking can greatly impact the body’s ability to heal. Stop smoking a few weeks before surgery, and don’t smoke at all during the recovery process.
• Wear Button Ups– Button-up shirts are a better option than pullovers during your rhinoplasty recovery, especially during the first few days after surgery. Wear a button up when you come in for your procedure. It can be very difficult to get a pull-over shirt off and on when your nose is sore, bandaged, and swollen.

The First Few Weeks

Many patients find they feel better very quickly after rhinoplasty. You’ll be the most uncomfortable in the first few days with rapid improvement each day. Many patients take about a week off from work, returning shortly after the splint is removed (usually 5-7 days after surgery). If you have any questions during this time or experience changes you weren’t expecting, give us a call. We’re here to answer any questions you may have.

These tips will help you in the first days and weeks after your surgery.

• Elevate Your Head– Elevating your head can help to alleviate swelling after surgery. Try to sleep and rest with the head slightly elevated for at least a week.
• Take it Easy– You’ll feel better each day after surgery, but make sure you take it easy. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until you get the all-clear from Dr. Lee.
• Wear Sunscreen– You’ll be more sensitive to sunburns right after surgery. Wear sunscreen and a hat any time you go outdoors.
• Don’t Wear Glasses– Glasses or sunglasses can damage the bridge of the nose right after surgery. Don’t let glasses or sunglasses rest on your nose for about six weeks. If you do wear glasses, and need them to see, we’ll show you how to wear them without letting them rest on the nose.

Long Term Recovery

It can take up to a year for the nose to fully heal after rhinoplasty. You should be able to see your results well before then, but may experience some residual swelling. These tips will help you with your long term recovery.

• Be Patient– It can take a long time for the nose to fully heal after rhinoplasty. Be patient and give it time. If you have any concerns, come see us. We want you to love your new nose.
• Protect Your Nose– If you participate in contact sports or other events where the nose may be damaged, take care to protect it. Many people get rhinoplasty to correct nasal trauma. We can give you tips for protecting your nose during sports and other activities.

Call and schedule your rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Lee today.