Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes or corrects the structure of the nose. This procedure can be performed to address aesthetic or functional concerns. After the surgery, you will likely experience swelling and bruising as part of the body’s natural healing response. While these effects will subside gradually, there are several things that you can do to manage them and prevent complications. Below are some tips to help you manage discomfort and promote healing during rhinoplasty recovery:
Keep Your Head Elevated
When sleeping, you should keep your head elevated by using two to three pillows and make sure that your head is higher than your chest. By doing so, blood will not pool in the surgical area, thus reducing swelling. Do this for the first few weeks after the surgery.
Apply Cold Compresses
Apply cold compresses to the surgical area, as advised by Dr Turner, to reduce swelling and bruising during rhinoplasty recovery. Make sure to apply them gently around your eyes and cheeks but not directly to the nose during the first 48 hours. The cold temperature helps minimise swelling and bruising by constricting the blood vessels. In addition, do not apply ice directly to your skin to avoid cold burns. Wrap the ice in a clean cloth or towel before applying.
Avoid Strenuous Activities
Strenuous physical activities, such as exercise, bending over, or heavy lifting, can exacerbate swelling and bruising by increasing blood flow to the surgical area. It is recommended that you rest during the first few weeks after the surgery to allow your nose to heal. Also, you should avoid any contact sports to prevent injury to the healing structures of your nose.
Stay Hydrated
Increase your daily fluid intake to two to three litres to help you stay hydrated. This helps flush out toxins from your body and can reduce swelling. Adequate hydration supports the healing of your nasal structures by maintaining skin elasticity and reducing fluid retention, which can contribute to swelling. You can also consume foods that are highly rich in water content, such as watermelon, lettuce, celery, tomatoes, and radishes.
Limit Sodium Intake
High sodium or salt intake can cause your body to retain water, leading to increased swelling. This happens because the body tries to balance the sodium concentration by holding onto more water. Foods rich in sodium include processed meats, canned soups, snack foods like chips, and fast foods.
Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
This combination can significantly affect your recovery due to their negative effects. Alcohol has blood-thinning effects, which can increase bruising. On the other hand, cigarettes contain nicotine, which can restrict blood flow by constricting the blood vessels, resulting in delayed healing and increased swelling. Make sure to completely avoid them, especially during the recovery period.
Take the Prescribed Medications
Before you get discharged home, you will be provided with prescriptions for medications to help manage discomfort and promote healing. You may need to take anti-inflammatory or pain medications to help manage swelling, bruising, and other discomfort. Take these medications as directed.
Avoid Excessive Facial Movements
During the recovery process, it is important to minimise facial expressions, as they can put pressure or strain on the healing nasal tissues. This includes limiting actions such as laughing, smiling, and yawning for at least 2 to 3 weeks after rhinoplasty to allow the tissues to heal properly.
Wear Loose Clothing
Wear clothing that doesn’t need to be pulled over your head, like button-down shirts or zip-up tops. This helps prevent any accidental bumping of your nose, which can delay the healing process and worsen bruising and swelling.
Avoid Hot Showers and Baths
You should avoid hot water as it can increase blood flow to the face, leading to increased swelling. Hot temperature dilates or widens the blood vessels, thus allowing more blood to flow. Use lukewarm water when taking a bath.
Avoid Blowing Your Nose
Blowing your nose too soon after surgery can put unnecessary pressure on the healing tissues. As a result, swelling and bruising can worsen and even lead to complications. Use tissues to gently dab if necessary, but make sure not to put any pressure on your nose.
Sleep on Your Back
The goal during the initial stage of healing from rhinoplasty surgery is to prevent any pressure on your nose. Sleeping on your side or stomach can put pressure on your nose. When this happens, injury may occur, leading to increased swelling and bruising.
Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure
While sun exposure is good for your overall health, too much ultraviolet rays may darken the resulting scars from rhinoplasty and exacerbate swelling. If sun exposure cannot be avoided, make sure to wear a high-SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat when going outdoors.
Avoid Wearing Glasses
Wearing glasses or sunglasses can put pressure on the bridge of your nose, which is particularly vulnerable during the healing process. This pressure can lead to increased swelling as well as disruption of the alignment of the nose. If you have problems with your vision, consult with your doctor regarding the use of contact lenses or alternatives.
Maintain Good Posture
Sitting and standing with good posture can help minimise swelling by promoting proper blood circulation. You should avoid slouching or bending forward as they can increase blood flow to your face, which may exacerbate swelling. In addition, keeping an upright position when performing your daily activities helps minimise swelling by draining fluids away from the nose through the aid of gravity.
Reasons to Choose Dr Turner for Rhinoplasty Surgery in Sydney’s Northern Beaches and Eastern Suburbs
Dr Scott Turner’s approach to rhinoplasty is patient-centred, ensuring that each procedure is tailored to the unique needs and goals of the individual. He is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and is a member of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (The Aesthetic Society), and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ISAPS).
Dr Turner’s experience in both public and private healthcare settings in Sydney provides him with a well-rounded perspective on surgical care. His practice also emphasises clear communication, with detailed consultations where patients can discuss their expectations and receive thorough information about the procedure. This approach allows patients to make informed decisions based on a clear understanding of what rhinoplasty entails and how it aligns with their personal goals.
