Nose surgery aftercare & post-op instructions

Getting plastic surgery is a life-changing decision for those who want to enhance their appearances. However, the success of the plastic surgery not only lies in the hands of your surgeon but also the patients. Yes, we are talking about nose surgery aftercare – how you should care for your nose after rhinoplasty.

Because only when you properly care for your nose after surgery and heal well, will you then have satisfactory results from your surgery. In this article, we will give you a comprehensive guide on what to expect after your rhinoplasty, post-op instructions and tips on nose surgery aftercare. Recover well, heal quick, and enjoy the results of your nose surgery.

What to expect after nose surgery

1. Bruising & swelling

Expect major bruising and swelling for at least 1~2 weeks. Bruising around your nose, in your cheeks and eye area is very common. Typically, about 70% of the bruising and swelling is lost within a week, and 80% in 2 weeks.

2. Numbness of nose

Numbness of your nose is quite normal but you will slowly regain sensation on the top of your nose. But you can expect your nose tip to be feeling slightly numb and stiff for up to 3 months after rhinoplasty.

2. Medicines & ointment

You will be prescribed with painkillers, stomach liners, and antibiotics after your surgery. Make sure to take your medications as prescribed by your plastic surgeons, typically 3 times a day for 5~7 days.

3. Nose splint

You will be required to wear a nose splint for 3~4 days after your nose surgery. The purpose of the nose splint is to protect and keep your nose in their new position while they heal. Do leave it on and wear it as advised by your plastic surgeon.

4. Nose packing

You may have nasal packing (gauze-like material) placed inside your nose to help to control bleeding but it will be removed after 1~2 days. It may be hard to breathe through your nose and you might have to breathe through your mouth until the packing is removed.

5. Breathing difficulties

You may experience difficulties in breathing due to the nasal packing but breathing through your nose will slowly improve after removal of nasal packing and stitches.

Nose surgery aftercare & post-op instructions

1. Do not rub, pull or put pressure on your nose for at least 1~2 months, especially if bones were broken during your surgery, so as to allow your nose to heal properly.
2. Do not blow or dig your nose for at least 2 weeks after surgery. If you need to remove nose boogers or dried blood, loosen it gently with moist Q-tips.
3. Try not to yawn or sneeze as these movements will cause pain. If you need to sneeze, do it with your mouth open.
4. Do not smoke or be around a smoker for at least 3 weeks. Smoking slows down healing and increases the risk of infection of your wounds.
5. Keep your head elevated and sit upright as much as possible to help minimize swelling.
6. Sleeping and resting with your head raised on 2~3 pillows can help minimize swelling.
7. Do not wipe or clean the incision and nose area until stitches are removed. Water can affect sutures, and possibly reopen the incision.
8. No full showers until stitches are removed. Getting the surgical area wet can lead to irritation, inflammation, and a higher risk of infection.
9. Apply cold compress or icepacks on your nose to help reduce swelling. Preferably for 10~15 mins, as and when possible.
10. Avoid facial massages, saunas and laser procedures (e.g. LPL, fraser laser etc.) for at least 1 month.

Exercise advice

• Avoid strenuous exercises such as aerobics, jogging, swimming, weight lifting, biking and intercourse for at least 3 weeks.
• Avoid bending over and activities that will raise your blood pressure.
• Take lots of light walks in the park as it helps reduce swelling, lower the chance of developing blood clots, and avoid constipation.

Food & drink advice

• Abstain from alcohol for at least 3 weeks as it thins your blood which causes prolonged bleeding or infections.
• Avoid salty foods for at least 2 weeks as it contribute to fluid retention and swelling.
• Reduce caffeine and carbonated drinks intake for the first few days.
• Eat a well-balanced diet and drink lots of fluids (water and fresh juices).
• Eat plenty of fruits and fresh vegetables to avoid constipation.

Medication advice

• Do not take aspirin or any products containing aspirin unless instructed by your surgeon.
• Avoid using any over-the-counter ointments unless recommended by your surgeon.
• If you have regular medication (eg. blood pressure or hypertension medication etc.), consult your surgeon on when you can resume taking them.
• Take your medications regularly as instructed by your surgeon.
• Do not take your medications on an empty stomach.
• Apply the prescribed ointment with a Q-tips or clean fingers.

Makeup & glasses advice

• Do not rest glasses on your nose bridge for at least 1 month. Instead, use cheek rests, or tape the glasses to your forehead until your nose has healed.
• Do not apply any lotion or creams on your nose area for at least 2 weeks.
• No makeup for at least 2 weeks as it will increase risk of infection and permanent discoloration of skin.

Extra nose surgery aftercare tips for speedy recovery

1. Limit movement of upper lips

Do brush your teeth gently to limit movement of your upper lip so as to avoid movements to your nose and the areas surrounding your nose.

2. Eat a well-balanced diet

This means lots of fruits and vegetables, but not forgetting your meats. And stay away from sweets and processed food, obviously. Fruits such as pineapples, berries and apples are known to help reduce swelling. Vegetables, especially dark leafy greens like spinach and broccoli, and meats, preferably white meats, help expedite healing and fight infections.

3. Sleep, sleep & sleep

Healing requires a lot of energy, so you’ll probably feel more tired than usual. Take lots of naps and sleep early at night. In fact, having a good night’s sleep is one of the best ways to accelerate your recovery process.

4. Avoid sunlight

Avoid sunlight to your nose for at least 3 months. Use a strong sunblock with a high SPF or wear a hat with brims to block off sunlight to your face.

5. Dress comfortably

Wear comfortable and loose clothing such as garments that do not need to be pulled over your head lest you hit or injure your nose in the process.

6. 16 things to avoid after nose surgery

Get extra special tips and details on what to avoid after nose surgery to help quicken your rhinoplasty recovery process.

Seek medical advice asap if you experience: