Rhinoplasty Recovery
If you're looking into cosmetic or nasal surgery, one of your concerns is probably the recovery process.
How long does it take to recover from Rhinoplasty, and is there anything specific you should know about the process?
After your surgery, you may be required to wear a splint to protect your nose and hold it in place as it heals into its new shape. You will probably wear your splint for around a week. You may also wear nasal packs in your nostrils in order to reduce swelling and staunch bleeding. You will probably experience mild to moderate discomfort or pain after your surgery, for which you will be prescribed pain killing medications. The majority of Rhinoplasty patients are well enough recovered that they can stop taking them after just 48 hours. You may also have some nausea after your surgery, particularly if you chose to use general anesthesia.
Along with the pain and discomfort, you may experience a feeling of congestion in your nose, but you must not blow your nose for a week! You can take a decongestant for this, but you want to avoid NSAIDs, since they can increase your bleeding. Bruising and swelling are common, and some patients find themselves with black eyes. Apply ice to reduce your bruising. Keep your head elevated, and always sleep on your back. If you wear glasses, ask for instructions.
Your swelling should go down after a couple of weeks, and most patients return to work within 10 days. After about a month you should be mostly recovered from Rhinoplasty. Swelling effects may linger for up to a year. If you experience a fever after Rhinoplasty, see a physician, as you may have an infection.
My rhinoplasty recovery was relatively painless besides some minor discomfort...
