Tips for Recovering From Rhinoplasty

Most people who get rhinoplasty say it’s a transformational process. But it’s important to remember that it’s just that: a process. You need to carve out some time to recover from your procedure. What’s more, planning ahead and being prepared during that recovery window can go a long way toward helping you reach your ideal results.

We can help. As a rhinoplasty specialist with more than 7,000 nose jobs under his belt, Dr. Norman J. Pastorek always talks with each patient before their procedure to ensure they know what to expect during their recovery process. So you can access that information outside of our offices on Manhattan’s Upper East Side in New York City and in Madison, Connecticut, we also gathered up some of the top recovery tips. 

Prep cold compresses

As you work to manage pain and swelling after your procedure, cold compresses make a big difference. Prep your freezer with Ziploc bags containing 1/3 cup of frozen peas.

Never put anything frozen directly on your skin, though. Wrap your cold compress in a clean, soft material (like a dishtowel) before applying it. 

Work to minimize bleeding and swelling

This means resting and sleeping with your head elevated above your chest. Add some extra pillows to your bed so you can prop yourself up comfortably. 

Also, in the two weeks leading up to your rhinoplasty and the two weeks that follow, avoid ibuprofen and aspirin because they can increase bleeding. 

Take at least a week off work

Dr. Pastorek waits six days after your procedure to remove the external silicone splint, so you’ll want to give yourself at least that long away from work. You’ll also have the most swelling and discomfort during this first week, so it’s an excellent time to lie low. Prep some meals for yourself or make a plan to have food delivered so you can take it easy. 

For most people, the bruising and tenderness around the surgery site fades within the first two weeks. By week three, you might be able to resume some light activity.

If you have a strenuous job, Dr. Pastorek generally recommends taking more time off. Talk with him about your usual daily activities so he can let you know how much time away to plan. 

Follow our post op instructions

Our team provides you with detailed directions about how to care for your surgical site and yourself in the days and weeks after your procedure. We’ve carefully crafted these based on our extensive experience, so follow them diligently. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask us.

Be patient

The soft tissue in your nose swells for longer than other parts of your body. While you should see some improvement within the first week or two, it often takes about two months for half of the swelling to subside. It may take a full year to see all of the contours in your nose. 

If you start to feel impatient, remind yourself that each day is bringing you closer to your ideal nose. 

Rhinoplasty is a big decision, largely because of the recovery period that comes with it. To learn more about the ins and outs so you can decide if this procedure is right for you, call one of our offices or schedule your appointment online.