Rhinoplasty is a common type of nose surgery performed to enhance the appearance of the nose. An important part of the post-rhinoplasty recovery process is to take the required measures to retain the benefits of the surgery for the long term. Rhinoplasty should only be performed by a surgeon with specialist training in the procedure, such as an appropriately trained ENT surgeon, who should be able to provide you with a detailed set of aftercare guidelines to follow post surgery.
Below is an outline of some of the main recommendations provided by ENT surgeons to patients who have just undergone nose surgery. Please note that these naturally vary somewhat with each individual case, and so for exact advice it is important that you consult with the surgeon who will be performing your procedure.
- Avoid blowing the nose: Generally, patients are advised not to blow their nose for around two weeks after nose surgery. This is to ensure that clots and stitches do not become loose, which could cause bleeding and other unwanted effects.
- Avoid eyeglasses: As they are worn over the bridge, patients should stop wearing sunglasses or spectacles immediately post surgery if recommended by their surgeon. Glasses in some cases can potentially restrict the nose, causing pain and damage.
- Change gauze pads: In some cases, a gauze pad may be secured to the upper lip to catch any drips from the nose. This needs to be changed as advised, to maintain good hygiene and prevent infections.
- Avoid bending over: This may cause bleeding, so patients who have undergone rhinoplasty should limit strenuous exercise, and ideally avoid activities that require bending over.
- Keep the head elevated: During the recovery process, patients are often advised to sleep in a recliner, or rest their head on a few pillows. This helps reduce swelling and facilitates easier breathing post surgery.
- Use an ice pack: This may be advised for the first few days after surgery to reduce any swelling or bruising that may arise.
- Use of saline nasal sprays: If a patient has had nose surgery for functional reasons, then nasal sprays are usually recommended to moisturise the internal nasal lining, and reduce breathing difficulties arising due to internal swelling.
- Showering: The nose may be covered with a splint, tape and dressings, to compress the skin and achieve the best outcome post surgery. In most cases, patients can comfortably take a shower with their dressings on, without the fear of them coming off.
ENT London is a premier ENT clinic in London that specialises in rhinoplasty. It is run by leading ENT specialists from major London hospitals who are dedicated to providing the highest level of patient care.
ENT London is one of UK’s leading rhinoplasty clinics, and can be contacted on 0207 580 6970.