Business Update to Coronavirus   To Request A Consultation Click Here Or Call Us At 757-491-3535 | Find Us On Facebook

Rhinoplasty Recovery: What To Expect & The Do’s & Don’ts

Rhinoplasty Recovery: What To Expect & The Do’s & Don’ts

Facial Fat Grafting – Important Things To Know

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 218,000 rhinoplasties (nose reshaping surgeries) were performed in the US in 2017. This common procedure can be utilized to correct birth defects, fix injuries or can serve purely cosmetic purposes, and most patients agree that the benefits greatly outweigh any discomfort during recovery.

We feel that it is important for patients to go into this procedure knowing what to expect during the recovery period so that they can manage their expectations and protect their results. In this article, we will explore the most important things to keep in mind following a rhinoplasty procedure.

Quick Facts:

  • Don’t underestimate the time commitment – Set aside time for healing. In general, patients are out of work for at least 1 week following rhinoplasty. Splints are in place and required for up to a week. You can expect bruising, especially around the eyes, for up to 2 weeks following your procedure.  Be sure to make note of any big social events you may have coming up, such as a wedding, and plan your surgery accordingly.
  • Expect temporary discomfort – While pain is usually minimal, it can be uncomfortable to have splints both over and in the nose. Discomfort should improve dramatically after the first week when splints are removed, and pain medicines and antibiotics are used as needed.
  • Know that swelling is common – Swelling is to be expected, especially at tip of the nose. The swelling at the nasal bridge may dissipate over two to three weeks; however, the swelling over the nasal tip and the evidence of the sculpting of the nasal tip cartilages may not be fully seen for 6 months. Patience is required in the postoperative period, but this does not preclude returning to normal activity.
  • Avoid bumps and injury – It’s important to limit physical activity that may displace the splint or jeopardize the position of the nasal bones. The danger of displacing the nasal bones is less likely after about a month, but be sure to talk with your surgeon if you have concerns!

DO:

  • Carefully follow the surgeon’s postop recovery instructions
  • Attend all follow-up appointments
  • Get plenty of rest
  • Use icepacks to reduce swelling (especially over the eyes initially)
  • Use a humidifier and keep elevated at bedtime
  • Be patient

DON’T:

  • Don’t hesitate to call your surgeon if you are concerned about complications
  • Don’t allow pressure to the area of the head or neck with straining or dependent posturing

If you are considering rhinoplasty surgery or facial plastic surgery, the best thing you can do is schedule an in-person consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and wishes.

rhinoplasty surgery can be a great option for many men and women seeking to improve their appearance. If you are interested in learning more about rhinoplasty surgery or other facial surgery, it’s best to receive careful consultation of all options to help determine the appropriate course of treatment. Contact us today to meet with one of our skilled and experienced board-certified plastic surgeons to discuss which procedure may be best for you, or give us a call at 757-491-3535.

 

  • Lisa Turner
    Lisa Turner
    2021-03-04
    Google

    Hands down this is the most amazing plastic surgery office! No haggling and Dr. Jacobs will not perform a surgery if the scar exceeds the benefit. His words exactly which is exactly what I want to know ahead of time not after the surgery is done. Dr. Jacobs is a phenomenal surgeon and I trust him 150%. Felecia his nurse is as wonderful as Dr. Jacobs!!

  • I visited Dr. Johnathan Jacob's Office to see about getting a Lipoma removed from my upper left shoulder. After meeting Dr. Jacob's he discussed with me what needed to be done to remove it. I was very happy with the surgery and how good a surgeon he is. I was very satisfied with the procedure and the outcome. I was happy with his staff also they took good care of me. ???

  • Karolyn Lea
    Karolyn Lea
    2021-02-11
    Google

    I am very pleased with Dr. Alspaugh and staff. I appreciate his honesty and his ability to give good advice. He was very professional and made sure I was comfortable. I’m looking forward to working hard and encouraged to start on this new journey to improve my look and my health...all in one. He’s so amazing.

  • Charity Wilder
    Charity Wilder
    2021-01-15
    Google

    Felicia is the absolute BEST. If you enjoy the feeling when people say, “You look too young to have a 19 year old.” Then book an appointment with Felicia immediately. She’s the sweetest human being on the planet and excellent at her job.

  • Love the staff!! They are so friendly and take time with you to really listen to your needs. Highly recommend!!

  • Julie Jackson
    Julie Jackson
    2020-09-09
    Google

    'My experiences at Associates in Plastic Surgery have all been outstanding. I have been a patient for more than 10 years. Dr. John Alspaugh is pleasant, patient and very informative. He listens to you and your concerns. I am always very happy with the results. Cheryl, his nurse is amazing! Go see her! She is sweet and knowledgeable. She eases my nerves and answers all of my questions and concerns. She even makes me laugh. Wonderful, caring staff.