Rhinoplasty surgery is a very gratifying procedure that can change the shape, size or angle of your nose so it balances out the rest of your facial features. Before you commit to transforming your nose with rhinoplasty, it is important to understand the recovery process, especially how long it will take and what you can expect during that time.
Read on as Charles S. Lee, MD, a Beverly Hills rhinoplasty surgeon at Enhance® Medical Center, explains what you need to know.
What to Expect Immediately after Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis, and you are usually allowed to go home the same day. Immediately after your procedure, you will rest in a recovery room as the anesthesia wears off. You may have packing inside your nostrils and a splint over your nose to support the healing structures. A friend or family member will need to drive you home from surgery and stay with you for at least 24 hours. You will probably want to sleep or rest the remainder of the day of surgery.
Common Side Effects and Symptoms
It is common to experience swelling, bruising, stuffiness and possibly some mild to moderate discomfort in the days immediately following your procedure. These symptoms are often worse the second day after surgery, but will steadily improve thereafter. Any pain can be controlled with oral medications. A little bit of bloody nasal discharge is common, but let your doctor know if the bleeding becomes very steady or heavy.
You must keep your head elevated (even while sleeping) in order to control the swelling. Do not blow your nose, as it might open your incisions or stitches. Refrain from bending, lifting or straining in the days following your procedure.
You will visit your doctor for follow-up appointments so they can remove the nasal packing and splint. They will also advise you as to when you can resume work, exercise and the rest of your day-to-day activities.
General Timeline
Everyone recovers at their own pace depending on the scope of the surgery, their age, health and other factors. You should plan to take approximately one to two weeks off work. You will need to refrain from strenuous exercise for approximately three to six weeks after surgery.
Although the initial recovery from rhinoplasty is normally quite rapid, it can take up to a year or more for your results to stabilize and the swelling to completely resolve.
Contact Our Rhinoplasty Surgeon
For a smooth procedure and great outcomes, it is important to find the most qualified surgeon to perform your rhinoplasty. Dr. Lee has spent many years acquiring the skill set and expertise needed to create beautiful results that look natural.
To schedule your consultation today with rhinoplasty specialist Dr. Lee, please contact Enhance® Medical Center today.
