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According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a rhinoplasty is the most common plastic surgery in the United States. Also referred to as a nose job, this procedure can result in a dramatic outcome for patients, so it’s no surprise the surgery is so popular.
A nose job improves facial balance and proportions, helps provide symmetry, addresses the width of the nasal bridge and nostrils, and smooths humps and depressions for an enhanced nasal shape.
Many men and women seek a rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons, but there can also be health benefits. Reshaping the nose can correct sinus problems and treat a deviated septum.
Some of the most repeated questions plastic surgeons hear with rhinoplasty regard the recovery process, so the following timeline has been created to help those considering a nose job get a better idea of what to expect.
Your Nose Job Recovery: A Timeline
It can take up to a year for all swelling to subside and the final results of your nose job to be appreciated.
But, patients generally experience a gradual change in appearance over the first few weeks as the tissues heal and the swelling continues to go down.
The First Week
After getting a ride home after surgery, you should rest and drink plenty of water. Aspirin and other blood-thinning medicines and supplements should be avoided, and any post-operative pain can be relieved with prescribed or approved over-the-counter medication. You will likely have a stuffy nose and some difficulties breathing — do not be alarmed. This is very normal.
You can expect to have your dressing removed by the end of the week.
Here are some tips to help you through the first week:
- Sleep is essential; give yourself time to rest even if you don’t usually nap.
- Keep your head raised above your chest, even while sleeping. This will reduce swelling.
- Avoid blowing your nose.
- Use ice or a bag of frozen peas to treat swelling.
- Avoid injury to the face.
Patients cannot blow their nose or wear glasses for six weeks.
The Second Week
You may continue to see and feel some bruising under your eyes and cheeks for one or two weeks and have some difficulty breathing through your nose.
Continue with any necessary tips above.
The Third Week
Most individuals can return to work or their normal routine in about three weeks. For more strenuous activity or physically demanding jobs, check with your surgeon, as this time will vary.
Also, ask about wearing glasses if you need them.
The Fourth Week
By this time, you will see a significant reduction in swelling and bruising and should be able to breathe through your nose more easily.
If you had any bones broken during your procedure, you should continue to take special precautions to avoid injury to the face. This practice should continue long-term.
By the end of the first month, you should have a good idea of what your nose will ultimately look like, but as previously mentioned, the final results may not be clear for up to a year.
How to Minimize Complications From Your Nose Job Surgery
The best way to ensure the best overall outcome is by choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon to perform your rhinoplasty procedure.
Ask to see rhinoplasty before and after photos of other cosmetic nose surgeries they’ve performed.
A thorough consultation with a reportable doctor can help prepare you for surgery and gives you the best opportunity to achieve ideal results.
Also, don’t smoke, as this contributes to complications and blood clots, and rest for the first three weeks of your recovery. After that, don’t overdo it.
Attend your post-operative appointments so that your surgeon can check your progress and advise you on anything that needs your attention. Call them if anything out of the ordinary occurs, or you have a question.
Have More Questions About aRhinoplasty in Miami, FL ?
If you are interested in cosmetic nose surgery in the Miami area, call celebrity plastic surgeon Dr. Leonard Hochstein for an in-depth consultation. His team is happy to answer your questions.
Call the office of Dr. Leonard Hochstein at (305) 931-3338 today!