Rhinoplasty, sometimes known as a nose job, is an option for those who are self-conscious about the size and shape of their nose. It makes them feel more attractive and confident. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons estimates that this surgery results in roughly 220,000 rhinoplasties being performed annually. If you’re thinking about getting plastic surgery on your nose, you might be curious or worried about how it will heal. Leading board-certified facial plastic surgeons in Washington State Dr. William Portuese and Dr Joseph Shvidler are outlining the healing process for rhinoplasty in order to help you better understand what to anticipate.
How Is Rhinoplasty Performed
In order for you to better grasp the healing process, let’s first take a look at the two types of rhinoplasty surgeries and how they are carried out.
Open Rhinoplasty
In order to do an open or external rhinoplasty, a small incision must be made on the columella, the tissue that divides the nostrils. By doing this, doctors have gained better access to the bone and cartilage in the nose, enabling him to do the treatment with more flexibility, visibility, and finesse. This technique is typically employed for more severe corrections or substantial reshaping.
Closed Rhinoplasty
Incisions are made inside the nostrils during closed or endonasal rhinoplasty, which is typically performed to make small adjustments or to reshape the nose’s bones or tip.
The recuperation period is shortened by this method’s reduced invasiveness.
Recovery from rhinoplasty
The recuperation process begins after your surgery, and with the right planning, you’ll know what to anticipate to make it as simple as possible.
After Rhinoplasty
The area will be packed or a splint will be put inside your nose during the procedure to stabilize the area, and bandages will be put on the outside of your nose to preserve the surgical site. You will recover at your cosmetic surgery facility for a short while following the completion of your procedure before being released. You should plan at least a week off from work, and you’ll need to have someone drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours so you can relax and heal.
For the first week, you’ll probably suffer a lot of bruising around your cheeks and around your eyes, along with severe swelling, pain, and tenderness. It’s crucial to rest, avoid intense exercise for the first week following surgery, sleep with your head elevated, and keep your follow-up appointment with your cosmetic surgeon.
A week or two following rhinoplasty
Although your plastic surgeon will give you more detailed, individualized instructions, normally, the packing or splint on your nose can be removed.
The most obvious swelling and bruising should have gone down by this point, and you can resume light everyday activities.
4-6 weeks following rhinoplasty
You can resume some cardiovascular exercises, such as walking, riding a stationary bike, or swimming, four weeks after your operation. Your bones have stabilized at six weeks, and the majority of your mending has been finished. This enables you to resume your exercise regimen, wear your glasses, and safely blow your nose.
It’s crucial to remember that you should pay attention to both your body and your doctor.
Speak with your doctor and exercise just to the extent that you feel comfortable if you don’t feel quite ready or if wearing your glasses causes you pain. Everybody recovers in their own way.
Six Months to a Year After Rhinoplasty
Six months after surgery, any numbness or other feelings at the surgical site that you may have had up until this point should be gone. It’s typical for the tip of your nose to feel stiff during the healing process. Your nose’s form has been totally finished at one year following surgery, and any residual selling has diminished.
Enhancing Your Recovery after a Rhinoplasty
Follow these instructions to achieve the best results with the least amount of discomfort and recovery time:
For the first 72 hours, apply cold compresses to your forehead and cheeks to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Rest as much as you can because your body heals and regenerates while you sleep.
Avoid hot pools, showers, and even food that is too hot. We advise taking lukewarm showers and opting for drinks and food that are at room temperature because the heat can exacerbate swelling in your nasal tissues.
To make sure that your body receives the nutrients necessary for healing, eat a nutritious, balanced diet that contains lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
For at least six weeks following surgery, keep your head elevated to lessen swelling and bruising.
To prevent sunburn, which can worsen swelling and color any scars, stay out of the sun.
Until your plastic surgeon provides the all-clear, wait to wear your spectacles.
Even when just temporarily worn, glasses can leave dents in the tissue.
For the greatest results, it’s very important to pay attention to your doctor and adhere to their detailed recommendations. If you have any questions, be sure to call your plastic surgeon.
Make an Appointment for a Raleigh Rhinoplasty Consultation Right Away
We can assist if you want to learn more about rhinoplasty or are debating if getting a nose job is suitable for you.
Contact a Washington State Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.
Learn more about King County Facial Plastic Surgeons.
