The time taken to complete a rhinoplasty cosmetic surgery procedure is usually two hours. However, the entire process from the preparatory stage to the recovery stage will take more time and effort.
While rhinoplasty is a relatively minor elective surgery, it involves a significant recovery period.
At the time of the pre-operative consultation, the surgeon will provide the patient with details on the recovery process and other aspects of rhinoplasty. Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides rhinoplasty to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding locations.
Post-Op Care
Following the nose reshaping surgery, the surgeon or their team will provide the patient and their attendant with post-operative care instructions. The patient should ideally have a friend or family member help them with routine tasks immediately after the surgery.
The below mentioned post-operative care guidelines can help mitigate the pain and discomfort during the recovery period:
- Remain properly hydrated
- Apply cold compresses to reduce the swelling
- Get sufficient rest in the first week at home
- Do not perform aggressive movements and exercises during the initial recovery period
- Do not blow the nose in the initial few days
Initial 48 Hours
For many patients, the initial 48 hours following the nose plastic surgery are more difficult. Patients are likely to feel some lingering effects of anesthesia as well as experience mild pain and discomfort at this time.
The surgeon may prescribe pain drugs to the patient. But some patients only need over the counter pain medidcations. The patient may experience the following issues during the rhinoplasty recovery:
- Swelling
- Headaches
- Nosebleeds
- Bruising
The patient should ideally remain in bed with their head in a raised position for the initial 24 hours after the procedure. Their face may appear puffy, and they may experience pain in the nose and head.
The patient may experience nosebleeds as well. It is important to avoid blowing the nose at this time as doing so could loosen or open the stitches and have an adverse effect on the recovery process.
Improvement after One Week
The surgeon will track the patient’s progress at a follow-up appointment around one week after the surgery. In case nasal packing was placed, they will remove this packing along with a splint and/or sutures. The bruising and inflammation will be subsiding by this time.
In a week after the rhinoplasty surgery, many patients are able to resume work and a more normalized routine. However, the patient should be cautious and avoid vigorous activities.
They should not engage in sports or return to weight lifting for two weeks after the nose reshaping surgery. On top of this, they should not perform any activity that may cause a blow to their nose for around eight weeks. It is not advisable to travel by air right after the rhinoplasty.
A majority of the side effects experienced during the recovery phase are mild. These typically resolve within the initial two weeks. However, it is vital to note that some minor inflammation will persist for many months. The final outcomes of the surgery may not establish for up to one year.
Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for rhinoplasty.
For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.
