What to Expect From a Rhinoplasty Recovery Period

Are you considering a rhinoplasty? Here’s what to expect from nasal surgery and how to get the best and safest results.

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For many patients, their nose is one of their most important features and its appearance can determine how confident and comfortable you feel in your skin. Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that is designed to alter the size or position of your nose for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Some of the reasons why people may seek out a rhinoplasty are to correct a nose that is:

• Too wide or narrow
• Twisted or deviated
• Disproportionate to the rest of the face
• Causing nasal airway problems
• Has a visible depression or hump on the bridge

Customized Cosmetic Surgery at our Edmonton Clinic

Whatever your concerns, our board-certified plastic surgeon offers a wide range of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures, including rhinoplasty, facelift, Botox and Juvederm to help you achieve all your aesthetic goals in the safest and most pleasing way.

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Facial Surgery

 

Rhinoplasty: What to Expect From the Recovery Period

Rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure, but when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, it is a safe and effective way of improving your appearance. However, for the best results, it’s important to know what to expect during the recovery period and to follow your plastic surgeon’s post-procedure advice.

Here’s a basic guideline to get you started:

Recovery Day 1 -3

• Day 1-3 are typically the most difficult few days. If you do have pain or discomfort, make sure to use the medication prescribed by your surgeon.
• To minimize swelling, sleep with your head propped up on two pillows. This will also limit bruising and bleeding.
• Try to rest as much as you can and limit your activity. After day 2, you can return to light activity.
• Avoid acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
• Be vigilant and watch for signs of infection. If you have a fever, notice excess skin redness, or discharge from your nose, contact your surgeon.

 

Recovery Day 4-7

• Your splint will most likely be removed by the end of this week, along with any stitches you have.
• During this period, the basic shape of your new nose will become clear, although there may still be quite a bit of swelling.
• Avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity. Depending on your job, you may be able to return to work, or your surgeon will recommend you take another week for recovery.
• When you go outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunblock to prevent sunburn. Remember that your nose is still quite vulnerable.

 

Recovery Day 7-14

• Your bruising and swelling will have faded significantly.
• Most patients will be able to return to work by day 10 or by the end of week 2.
• You must still be careful about doing any strenuous activity or heavy lifting.

 

Recovery Day 15-30

• For most patients, their surgeons will clear them to resume their normal activity and a moderate exercise routine.
• Typically, it is recommended that patients take at least another month off from contact sports or other strenuous activity.
• ALWAYS check with your surgeon before beginning your exercise routine again.
• Most of your swelling will have subsided and your new nose will become more and more refined.

 

Final Rhinoplasty Results

A year following your nasal surgery, all of your swellings will have disappeared and your scar, if you had one, will have faded almost completely. At this point, you should book an appointment with your plastic surgeon so he/she can evaluate your results.

 

Call Today

If you are looking for a way to rejuvenate your facial appearance, we offer both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures to suit your specific needs. To find out more about the costs and benefits of these treatments, visit our clinic located at 8440 112 Street Northwest, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2P4.

Additionally, you can contact Dr. Ladak at 780-407-6691 or fill in our online contact form.