Rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure requiring precision, skill, and artistry in reshaping the delicate internal and external structures of the nose to improve appearance and breathing function. As a former rhinoplasty patient, Double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon Dr. Yula Indeyeva draws from her firsthand experience to provide helpful advice. To ensure the best results from your nose surgery, you must prepare for the healing process. Here are five tips to help ensure a smooth recovery.
1. Lead a Healthy Lifestyle
We will provide you with detailed instructions to follow to maximize your comfort while you are on the mend. In general, you should plan to take at least a week off from work so you can fully focus on your recovery. We also recommend reducing stress, staying hydrated, avoiding caffeine and nicotine, and eating a balanced diet. Please arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from surgery and stay with you for the first 48 hours of your recuperation period.
2. Take Light Walks
After nose surgery, your body will need to focus most of its energy on healing, so avoiding strenuous activity is ideal. However, we encourage you to take gentle walks throughout your recovery. This light exercise helps increase oxygen and blood flow throughout your body, delivering vital nutrients where they can provide the most benefits. Going for daily walks around your home, yard, or neighborhood is also an excellent stress relief valve, which further aids in recovery. Please wait to resume more intense workouts until Dr. Indeyeva clears you to do so.
3. Use Ice Packs
Bruising and swelling are typical side effects of the earliest phases of rhinoplasty recovery. You’ll return home on the day of your surgery with a nasal splint, which you’ll need to wear for two weeks to support your nose’s new shape while it heals. You can use a flexible ice pack to reduce the swelling and alleviate pressure and puffiness, especially in the first few days after your procedure. Periodically applying cold will allow your nose to heal more quickly.
4. Sleep With Your Head Elevated
Another way to reduce swelling in rhinoplasty recovery is to sleep on your back with your head supported. Keeping your head above your heart will prevent fluids from building up around your nose and face. You can use pillows to prop up your head or sleep in a recliner for a week or two. Rolling onto your side or stomach may cause you to accidentally bump your nose, which is not only painful but might also delay healing or cause asymmetry during a delicate period.
5. Be Patient
It can take months to fully heal from rhinoplasty surgery, and during that time frame, your nose’s appearance and function will continue to improve. Remember not to rush the healing process, gradually easing back into your typical daily routine as you feel well enough to do so.
Why Choose Dr. Indeyeva for Your Austin Nose Job?
Partnering with a talented Facial Plastic Surgeon to perform your nose job is critical to achieving your desired results. Dr. Indeyeva is Double Board-Certified and trained under one of the world’s most renowned rhinoplasty surgeons. She brings this expertise to her Austin plastic surgery practice.
Dr. Indeyeva’s knowledge of facial anatomy and attention to detail ensure all patients receive tailored treatment solutions intended to meet and exceed their aesthetic goals. Contact us today to schedule your private rhinoplasty conversation and start your journey toward loving how you look and feel.
