Rhinoplasty, or commonly referred to as a nose job, continues to rank amongst the most popular plastic surgery procedures for men and women all over the world. Since the nose is a primary focal point that has a direct impact on an individual’s facial appearance, it is no wonder that rhinoplasty is popular – given the fact that it may provide dramatic improvements. Additionally, rhinoplasty can also be done to treat a number of problems, such as issues with breathing and nasal deviation (frequently brought on by injury).
As with any surgical procedure, the healing process varies from person to person. In this article, we provide you with general information on what to anticipate following a rhinoplasty treatment as well as some helpful tips on how to have the smoothest and most comfortable recovery.
The basics of rhinoplasty recovery
Generally, recovery from a rhinoplasty procedure will take about two weeks – though this is just a rough estimate, and the recovery process depends largely on individual circumstances and conditions. Sometimes, a nasal splint may be required to facilitate a smooth and quick recovery whilst maintaining the shape of the nose. Slight swelling and bruising can be expected during the healing process as well.
Rhinoplasty recovery tips: How to have the smoothest recovery possible
1. Stay hydrated
A hydrated body recovers more quickly. Water encourages the wound to drain correctly, which lessens swelling and aids in the removal of toxins after undergoing anesthesia. The best approach to hydrate is by consuming electrolyte-balanced liquids. When you arrive home post-surgery, quickly rehydrate to reduce postoperative nausea and dizziness. Another important factor in staying hydrated is avoiding foods that are high in sodium. Blood pressure rises as a result of eating too much salt, which can make edema – swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in your body’s tissues — worse.
2. Maintain a healthy diet
Eating a balanced diet helps hasten your recovery by providing your body with the nutrition it requires to heal itself. Protein is a crucial component of skin, blood, cartilage, and muscle. Nuts, meat, eggs, yogurt, and other foods high in protein will assist your body in repairing the harmed tissue in and around your nose.
Moreover, you should ensure that your food is rich in vitamins, particularly vitamins C and A. After surgery, vitamin A, which is frequently found in leafy greens like spinach and kale, can help you fight off infections by boosting your immune system. Collagen, the protein that holds your skin tissue together, regenerates with the help of vitamin C!
3. Avoid strenuous activities
In order to minimize the risk of any complications, strenuous activity should be avoided for approximately 6 weeks after the surgery. Nasal swelling can be exacerbated by these activities and actions. Instead, allow your body some time to rest by getting plenty of sleep and avoiding sports or any movements where you may bump your nose.
However, it may be beneficial to incorporate some light walking in your routine – this may improve your body’s blood circulation, supporting efficient drainage, which is essential for reducing inflammation.
4. Avoid blowing your nose
Following surgery, you will likely have some congestion from nasal tissue swelling for a few weeks or perhaps even a couple of months. Until the swelling subsides, resist the impulse to blow your nose or sneeze through your nose. Instead, try to sneeze through your mouth – this will prevent your fragile nasal passages from becoming damaged, which would slow down the entire recovery process.
5. Listen to your doctor
Last but certainly not least, you should always follow all post-surgical instructions given to you by your doctor strictly. The medications you should take, when to take them, how to care for your nose to avoid infection, and when you should return for a follow-up checkup will all be covered in detail in the instructions you will be given after your surgery. The last thing you would want is to go through the entire rhinoplasty process and not achieve the best possible results because you didn’t listen to your doctor!
You are in safe hands with The Clifford Surgery Clinic
Each patient’s recovery from rhinoplasty is unique. Besides the recovery tips we have shared above, choosing the right doctor to perform the surgery for you will make all the difference in your recovery process as proper surgical technique and post-surgical care will minimize the risk of any complications.
Here at The Clifford Surgery Clinic, our certified doctors are equipped with the professional know-how to perform the two main approaches to rhinoplasty – nasal tip plasty and alarplasty – and can help you achieve your dream nose in the safest and most comfortable way possible. If you are looking for a non-surgical procedure to alter the shape of your nose, you may also consider our nose filler and nose thread lift procedures.
Besides these, we also provide a range of cosmetic surgical procedures – including tummy tuck surgery, double eyelid surgery and more. Regardless of what surgical procedure you opt for – no matter if it is a nasal tip plasty or abdominoplasty surgery in Singapore — your safety is our main priority, and we will do everything we can to ensure it. Our skilled surgeons have a combined total of more than 18 years of experience in the medical field, and can provide the greatest treatment before, during, and following the operation.
To learn more or to book an appointment, do not hesitate to contact us here!