What Should You Expect During Rhinoplasty Surgery Recovery?

Rhinoplasty Surgery Recovery

Generally, rhinoplasty takes about two hours to complete. However, the entire procedure takes a longer time from preparation to the actual post-surgery recovery. During the pre-operative consultation, the surgeon will explain all vital aspects of the recovery process.

Open rhinoplasty procedure tends to take longer than a closed procedure. This is because significant nasal bone and tissue modifications are involved. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Peter Koltz provides rhinoplasty to patients in Toledo, Maumee, Northwest Ohio; Southeastern Michigan, and surrounding communities.

Post-Operative General Care

Your surgeon or one of their team members will inform you about the post-surgery regimen to follow. Your willingness and ability to adhere to their instructions will determine your recovery duration. It is recommended that you get a family member or a friend to help you with chores in the initial few days.

Following instructions are generally provided by surgeons following a nose job:

• Get adequate hydration
• Get enough rest by staying at home the first few weeks following the procedure
• Using a cold compress on swelling
• Avoid intense physical activity and vigorous exercise the first few weeks following the procedure
• Don’t blow your nose for a few days following the surgery

First 48 Hours After the Surgery

The first 48 hours following a rhinoplasty cosmetic surgery procedure are the most challenging for most patients. Patients experience problems, such as swelling, bruising, nosebleed, and headache. Anesthesia effects will not have completely gone away. You may still experience mild pain and discomfort from the procedure.

Many patients experience a puffy face and headache during the period. Your surgeon will give you pain medications if over-the-counter pain relievers don’t help with pain. Drugs may be prescribed by the surgeon. However, some patients only require counter pain medications.

Your surgeon may ask you to stay in bed for the first 24 hours following the procedure. They will ask you to keep your head elevated. You should have a family member, or a friend help you with chores during this period. It is possible that you may experience a nosebleed. It is important that you avoid blowing your nose the first few days following the procedure. Otherwise, you may end up opening or loosening the stitches.

First Week Follow-up

Your surgeon will remove the splint after assessing your progress when you go for your follow-up visit after 7 days following the nose reshaping plastic surgery procedure. They will remove sutures and nasal packing as well. You should be able to go back to your normal routine and work after 7 days. However, it is vital that you don’t lift any heavy objects and stay away from intense physical exertion.

You should avoid air travel and nose blowing during this time as well. Many patients continue to experience puffiness or swelling in the operated area for many months. The final size and shape of the nose will show after a few weeks or months.

The results in most cases outweigh initial discomfort. Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Peter Koltz receives patients from Toledo, Maumee, Northwest Ohio; Southeastern Michigan, and nearby areas for a nose job.

Contact Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Peter Koltz in Toledo, Ohio

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