Because rhinoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, it’s important to understand your post-operative care requirements before you undergo the surgery. While the results of rhinoplasty vary depending on what kind of correction you want, it is vital that you and your plastic surgeon agree on the goals of the surgery beforehand. The results of rhinoplasty are permanent, so making sure everything goes as planned is essential to a successful surgery and recovery.

After the surgery
Rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure dealing with the delicate tissue and bones in the nose, so it’s going to take time and rest before it gets back to normal. Recovery and downtime with rhinoplasty is just as important to the outcome of your procedure as the surgery was. After all, complications that arise during the healing process could have serious repercussions on your nose’s function and appearance.

Things to avoid

  • Don’t participate in sport activities (swimming, playing sport games) or any activities that increase your blood pressure for more than two weeks.
  • Avoid rubbing your nose or getting it sunburned for at least eight weeks.
  • Be careful while washing your hair and face and be gentle using cosmetics.
  • To help your healing nose maintain its shape, you won’t be able to wear eyeglasses or sunglasses on the bridge of your nose for approximately four weeks; however, you can wear contacts.
  • Avoid chewing gum as well as foods that are hard to chew because they cause too much facial movement.
  • Don’t consume alcohol because it thins the blood and can lead to bleeding.

Rhinoplasty “red flags”
Certain red flags may indicate that your rhinoplasty recovery is not going smoothly.  For example, a fever may be a sign that there is an infection.  It is important to monitor your temperature regularly, and to take your antibiotics as prescribed. The risks and complications of rhinoplasty may be rare, but it’s important to know what the signs are so you can get the problem handled before it gets worse. Luckily, your will have numerous doctor visits with your surgeon after the surgery so he can evaluate how you’re healing and potentially clean the inside of your nose. During this time you can express any concerns and consult with your doctor about any unusual symptoms you may be having.