Absolutely everyone is eager to see their new nose following rhinoplasty and take that first full breath of air, but this can only happen after a patient has had time to recover from the procedure. As the patient, you are an active participant in this process. You can expedite the processhelp the process go relatively quickly while staying as comfortable as possible by keeping the following four tips in mind.
Post-Op Instructions Are Your Friend
Before your procedure, your facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon will let you know what to expect each step of the way, including what your recovery should entail. You will receive a printed guide that is very important to read over thoroughly before your scheduled surgery. This will outline details about how often you should take any medications, when you can resume your normal activity level, and how to care for your nose through each phase of healing.
The Ideal Sleep Position
Because of the initial swelling and bleeding that naturally result following a rhinoplasty, it is highly recommended (practically required) that you sleep on your back with your head in a slightly elevated position, about 45 degrees or so above the horizontal. This will help decrease the swelling, therefore reducing any pain or pressure, and prevent accidental nudges or bumps that can occur if you lay flat or on your side. Wearing an airplane neck pillow can also help stabilize the neck and prevent inadvertent changes in position.
Take a Break from Alcohol
As your surgeon will discuss during your preoperative consultation, smoking any nicotine containing substances is strictly prohibited a minimum 8 weeks before and after surgery. Nicotine restricts blood flow, which is sorely needed for healing. Nicotine use can increase the risk of catastrophic complications such as skin necrosis, infection, and poor wound healing. Alcohol can also increase swelling and interfere with medications. It is recommended that you curtail alcohol use a week or so before the procedure so you do not have to try to alter your habits while also recovering from surgery.
Relax & Avoid Physical Activity
Engaging in strenuous exercise right after a rhinoplasty can increase swelling, bleeding, and even alter the results of the surgery. You should plan to take it easy for a few weeks, and depending on the nature of your job, you may be advised to take a certain amount of time off. No strenuous physical activity is recommended at minimum 2 weeks following surgery. How much time off work is necessary can be determined by you and your surgeon on a case by case basis so you can plan appropriately.
While everyone’s recovery journey is slightly different, simply following your surgeon’s instructions along with a few common sense guidelines can help you get to the big day while staying comfortable and enjoying peace of mind.
About Dr. Sarah Khayat
Dr. Sarah Khayat began her medical career by being accepted into the renowned Guaranteed Entrance to Medical School (GEMS) program at the University of Louisville, where she went on to earn her bachelor’s and medical degrees. She then completed her residency in Otolaryngology at the University of Illinois at Chicago, becoming a board certified ENT, before completing a Fellowship in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. By concentrating her skills and knowledge on the face and neck, she can offer a nuanced and expert approach tailored to meet your individual facial aesthetic and functional goals.
To date, Dr. Khayat has helped many patients become more confident and restore nasal breathing by providing rhinoplasty, and she is eager to show you what’s possible. To ask a question or schedule a consultation with Dr. Khayat, click here.
