Whether you are uncomfortable with the size and shape of your nose or simply wish to refine your side profile, rhinoplasty can balance your facial features by improving the dimensions of the nose, making it the ideal treatment for these concerns. Board-certified plastic surgeon Charles S. Lee, MD, has the experience and skill necessary to craft beautiful rhinoplasty results and has done so for many satisfied patients over the years. Learn more about recovering from this procedure below.
Swelling Is Normal After Surgery
It is important to understand that swelling is a normal part of your recovery; you can expect to experience swelling for about four to six weeks following your rhinoplasty. While it can take up to a year to fully heal from this surgery, swelling should decrease after about three months. Many patients feel the sensation of a stuffy nose due to the swelling, but you will need to avoid blowing your nose as you heal.
Your Sleeping Position Will Change
Although it may seem like a small thing, you will need to prepare for your sleeping position to change following your rhinoplasty. Your aftercare instructions will contain information on ideal post-surgical sleeping positions that promote your healing and reduce pressure on the nose while still allowing for restful sleep. For example, resting with your head elevated higher than your chest can reduce swelling and bleeding. Many patients easily adjust to this change with the use of specially designed pillows to help them sleep more comfortably.
You Must Refrain from Certain Activities
As part of your aftercare instructions, you will be given a list of activities to avoid during your recovery. Patients should adhere closely to these instructions; ignoring them could result in complications and slow healing. Generally, these include:
- Avoiding rigorous physical activity, such as sprinting or aerobics
- Wearing clothes that have closures in the front, as opposed to pulling shirts over your head where they can interfere with your nose
- Sneezing with your mouth open instead of closed, which can put pressure on the surgical site
- Refraining from certain facial expressions that involve movement of the nose
Additionally, there are things you will need to incorporate during your recovery, including using quality sunscreen when exposed to the sun to avoid skin discoloration on and around the nose. If you usually wear eyeglasses or sunglasses, you may need to tape the glasses to your forehead or use cheek rests for a few weeks to eliminate the added pressure these objects can place on the nose.
Contact Enhance® for Your Rhinoplasty Consultation
Dr. Lee will provide guidance on additional actions you can take to promote swift healing during your recovery. If you are ready to learn more about rhinoplasty at Enhance® Plastic Surgery®, schedule a consultation by contacting our office or requesting an appointment online.
