Following the rhinoplasty procedure, almost all patients are up and about within a day. The little nasal packing that is put around the nose is taken out the evening after the surgery. As a result, the patient can breathe through the nose the very first night after surgery. The splint that is meant for the nose to retain its new shape is taken out after a week. But the patient that has a desk job, and not a public job, may go back to work the very next day after surgery. However, those working in public jobs may have to wait for a week until the splint is removed.
The immediate recovery period can vary between three to seven days, depending on the needs of the surgery. It also depends on each patient’s general health and individual ability to return back to normal routine following the surgery. In most cases, however, the recovery will follow a somewhat similar recourse, as follows:
There will be swelling around the operated area. The patient may apply ice pack therapy for temporary relief.
Minor bleeding may occur in the first few days after the surgery.
The patient may feel good enough to resume a normal lifestyle within three days.
The splint may have to stay in place for seven days, even if the patient feels normal much earlier.
Minor bruises around the patient’s eyes may appear immediately following the surgery. They would fade away on their own within a week’s time.
The patient may feel minor congestion or nasal discomfort for a few weeks after the surgery.
It may take two to four weeks for the swelling to go away completely.
Skin sensitivity around the nasal area may remain for a few weeks.
Numbness of the nasal tip may remain for a few weeks.
Following the rhinoplasty, the patient must follow the post-op instructions given by the operating surgeon. The best results from the procedure will be seen when the patient follows the instructions conscientiously. The recovery period may get extended if the patient does not exercise and take proper care following the surgery.
For about two months after the surgery, the patient should avoid any aggressive physical activity that may put the nose in a vulnerable position. This could include any contact sports or heavy weight lifting of any kind. Patients who wear glasses may have to opt for contact lenses for a period of six to seven weeks after the surgery.
The full and final results of a rhinoplasty can be seen only after a period of three months. Therefore, it is essential that the patient takes good care during this period to ensure good and healthy recovery.
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