What to Expect from Rhinoplasty Recovery
Plastic surgery has become a common solution for cosmetic flaws. While the majority of plastic surgery procedures are successful and free of complications, they will require a significant recovery period. It is important for patients to be fully aware of what to expect before, during, and after any plastic surgery before they make the decision to undergo treatment. When patients come to Orange County plastic surgeon William C. Cohen for plastic surgery, he makes sure that they are well informed on all aspects of the procedure. One of the procedures commonly performed by Dr. Cohen is rhinoplasty surgery, also referred to as a “nose job.” Dr. Cohen believes that by informing his Orange County patients on what to expect during rhinoplasty recovery, he can help make that recovery smooth and successful.
Common Side Effects
Following rhinoplasty surgery, there are several side effects that are experienced by most patients. Some of the most common side effects of rhinoplasty surgery include:
- Nausea (which is a result of the anesthesia used during surgery)
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Pain
- Nasal congestion
Recovery from rhinoplasty surgery is a unique experience for each patient. While most patients will experience these side effects, the severity and duration of the symptoms will vary. While the nausea will likely only last for a day, as it is a direct result of the anesthesia, other symptoms such as bruising and swelling may last for several days to several weeks.
Tips for Ensuring a Smooth Recovery
Being prepared is the best way to ensure a smooth and successful recovery from rhinoplasty surgery. The following are tips to help deal with the side effects of surgery and avoid possible complications.
- Have ice on hand to help alleviate swelling.
- Be prepared to keep the head elevated while resting after surgery.
- Be sure to fill any prescriptions before surgery so pain medication will be available for use immediately after surgery.
- While nasal congestion is a common side effect of surgery, patients should avoid blowing their nose for at least a week after a rhinoplasty procedure; ask Dr. Cohen about decongestants to help relieve stuffiness.
- If you wear glasses, you will need to remove the glasses for three weeks following surgery, as the nose will be very sensitive.
- It is very important to protect the nose after surgery, even after the splint has been removed. Patients should avoid contact sports or any activity that puts the nose at risk of injury for several weeks following surgery.
Rhinoplasty Results
As the swelling in the nose goes down, the results of rhinoplasty surgery will become more noticeable. The majority of swelling should subside within the first two weeks after surgery, and most patients do not report any swelling after the first month. Still, for our patients in Orange County, rhinoplasty results may not be complete for up to a year after surgery.
Schedule an Appointment
If you would like to know more about rhinoplasty surgery, schedule an appointment with Dr. William C. Cohen. Dr. Cohen can show you how the changes made during rhinoplasty can bring balance and proportion to your facial features.