Located smack-dab in the middle of your face, your nose has a major impact on how you look — and how you feel about yourself. It’s no wonder, then, that rhinoplasty (or nose job surgery) has such a high satisfaction rate among men and women who undergo the procedure. And it’s also no surprise that it’s one of the most “popular” types of cosmetic surgery in the U.S. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgery, rhinoplasty is the third most commonly performed cosmetic surgery, right behind breast augmentation and liposuction.
Choosing an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon like Dr. Theodore Diktaban is a critically important part of making sure you get the results you’re looking for. Dr. Diktaban is also one of the few surgeons performing the brand new preservation rhinoplasty in New York. But it’s also important to take special care of your nose during the postop recovery period. Here are seven tips you’ll want to pay attention to during your recovery to make sure your rhinoplasty results are everything you want them to be.
1. Don’t blow your nose.
Your nose is going to be pretty irritated after surgery, and it may feel “stuffed up.” It’s really important, though, that you avoid the urge to blow your nose, which will just increase that irritation – and possibly interfere with your results. If you have discharge from your nose — which is common — be sure to follow the cleaning instructions provided by Dr. Diktaban. Don’t try to clear material from your nose by poking around with a cotton swab (or your fingers). Try to breathe through your mouth as much as you can, and if you feel the need to sneeze, open your mouth when you sneeze to relieve pressure.
2. Avoid strenuous activities.
Gym activities like weightlifting, circuit training, aerobics, and running can all increase pressure in and around your nose, and the repetitive jolting from running can also interfere with normal healing. Even “normal” bending, lifting and pushing/pulling need to be avoided to prevent increases in pressure that can increase swelling in and around your nose. Your discharge instructions will provide you with complete details about which types of activities to avoid, and Dr. Diktaban will provide you with additional guidance about when and how you can resume physical activity.
3. Stay out of the shower — and the pool.
After your surgery, a protective cast or splint will be placed on your nose and dressings will be placed over and inside your nose to prevent injury and provide support. You must keep these bandages dry. That means no swimming and no showers — but baths are just fine. You can also use a damp (not soaking) cloth to carefully wipe your face. In most cases, the cast and dressings will be removed within a week or so.
4. Don’t smoke or drink alcohol.
This is some advice you’ll need to carry over from your preop instructions. Smoking and alcohol can interfere with healing in a big way. You’ll need to refrain from both activities before surgery and during your recovery period as well. Alcohol can also increase bleeding and interact with medications you take for pain. Do be sure to stay hydrated with water, as proper hydration is also important for healing.
5. Avoid direct sunlight.
Once your cast is removed, be sure to use sunscreen whenever you go outside — even if it’s cloudy. Exposure to UV rays could cause discoloration around your scars, making them more visible.
6. Don’t remove your splint or your bandages.
That includes the ones inside your nose. All these dressings provide support for your nose as it heals, helping it maintain the correct position. Dr. Diktaban will remove your splint and your dressings during your follow-up visits.
7. Don’t wear pullovers — or eyeglasses.
Swap out T-shirts and sweaters that pull on over your head for button-up shirts or tops with zippers to prevent hitting your nose and accidentally “moving” it. Eyeglasses place a surprising amount of pressure on the bridge of your nose, so it’s really important to use contacts or just go without lenses during the first stages of your recovery.
Find out more about rhinoplasty.
Rhinoplasty can substantially improve your appearance — and your confidence. If you’ve been thinking about rhinoplasty, Dr. Theodore Diktaban, MD, FACS, can help you decide if the surgery is a good option to help you achieve your goals. Ready to learn more? Contact our office or book your appointment online today.
Dr. Theodore Diktaban, MD FACS, a double board-certified plastic surgeon with 35+ years of experience, specializes in safe and subtle cosmetic treatments, enhancing natural beauty and boosting self-confidence in the Upper East Side and New York City.
