What to Avoid During Your Rhinoplasty Recovery

Every rhinoplasty patient wants their surgery and recovery period to go as smoothly as possible, especially if they hope to achieve their best possible results. After your surgeon has done his part of the work, it’s up to you to do the work for a successful healing process. Getting there means knowing exactly what to do and especially what not to do. If you can follow your facial plastic surgeon’s advice to the letter, you’ll greatly improve your chances of a full recovery.

You may be a bit overwhelmed after surgery, so plan ahead to create your recovery to-do list. Fill your prescriptions and do your grocery shopping; ask a friend to help out with your children or pets; find someone to drive you to and from your surgery. Once you know exactly what to do, it’s easy to go down the list and check things off. When it comes to avoiding certain things, however, you might need more frequent reminders. Keep these restrictions in mind for a successful rhinoplasty recovery.

Exercise Is Out

The first few days of your recovery, you won’t feel much like doing your aerobic workout or lifting weights. Exercise should be avoided for a time. When you are cleared to begin some activity, start slow and start small before working your way back up to your old routines. Start walking before you run and try cardio workouts in shorter durations. Remember that exercise doesn’t just mean what you can do in a gym, either. Be aware of any activities that can raise your heart rate, strain your body, or cause too much exertion. Those with very physical jobs may need to take off more time before returning, so discuss these concerns with your facial plastic surgeon before your surgery date.

Skip the Tissues

When you’re healing from rhinoplasty surgery, the last thing you want to deal with is nasal congestion. Unfortunately, allergies and cold viruses can wreak havoc on your body at any time of the year. No matter how stuffed up you might be feeling, however, you can’t turn to that box of Kleenex during your recovery process. Blowing your nose will not only hurt a lot, it can also upset the surgical changes made to it. Instead of fighting off that sniffle, do everything you can to stay healthy during the recovery process. Talk to your facial plastic surgeon about any allergy medications you might be taking and whether they are safe to take while you recover. Avoid getting sick with regular hand washing, lots of disinfectants, and by steering clear of anyone with a cough or sniffle.

Stay Out of the Sunshine

If your rhinoplasty is planned for the spring or summer months, and you’re a beach regular, you might have trouble avoiding the sun’s rays. However, leaving your nose and face exposed to UV rays as you recover could make your scars more visible after surgery. A sunburn could mean sun spots on the nose later on as well. It’s best to use a strong SPF sunscreen to protect your skin anytime you’re outside. For at least a year after your rhinoplasty, wear a hat to give your nose a little extra shade as well.

Pass on Glasses

Rhinoplasty patients who wear eyeglasses or sunglasses regularly may not have thought about this little rule. Whether they’re for sight or for shade, glasses are definitely out until your facial plastic surgeon says so. Glasses often sit on the bridge of the nose and while they feel lightweight, they can actually do damage on the soft tissues and cartilage as they heal. If you want your rhinoplasty results to look right, pass on your glasses until further notice.

Lying Flat Is Out of the Question

While you’re healing from nasal surgery, you should remain upright as much as you can to reduce swelling and encourage a quick recovery. If you lie down or lean back, always keep your head elevated to avoid that excess blood flow to the head. It can prolong your discomfort and extend the recovery process if you spend time lying flat while you sleep or relax. Prop up your head with a pillow and you’re on your way to recovery.

Say No to Alcohol, Cigarettes, and Drugs

There are many substances that can interact with anesthetics, pain medication, and other prescriptions you may be taking after surgery. Smoking, drinking, or using any drugs of any kind could cause problems with blood circulation, hydration, and more. To have a safe and smooth recovery, avoid anything that hasn’t been expressly approved by your facial plastic surgeon. It’s the best way to be sure your recovery will stay on track.

Get Started With Your Rhinoplasty Plans Today

To get your best results and learn how to make it through your own recovery, speak with an expert who can deliver the results you want. Consult with a facial plastic surgery to achieve your best results.  Dr. Andrew Frankel is board certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, as well as Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (Ear Nose and Throat). He is an expert in the field of nasal surgery and has been recognized for his original research regarding vasculature to the nose and rhinoplasty’s effect on it. Schedule your appointment today with a world-renowned facial plastic surgeon to guarantee your best rhinoplasty results. Contact Dr. Frankel’s office, located at 201 Lasky Drive in Beverly Hills, California, by calling (310) 552-2173.