While there are many reasons a person may consider rhinoplasty, it pretty much just boils down to whether the procedure is considered cosmetic or medical in nature. Whatever the rationale, the healing process can be intense and undoubtedly more than you may have expected. At the end of the day, rhinoplasty is surgery which comes with its own risks and phases of recuperation. In some cases, it can take up to a year for your new nose to literally take shape. What steps can you take to help ensure a speedy and effective recovery?

No Exercise

This is one of those rare instances when exercising is counterproductive. Even if you’re not a fitness nut, it may become tempting as you convalesce to step on the gas when it comes to the level of your physical activity. However, it’s essential to wait for the proper amount of time before you start working out. This is especially true for cardiovascular activities where breathing is affected. You may think you can get away with heavy lifting and muscle-building exercises since they are relatively stationary, but you still run the risk of building up pressure that might affect your stitches. In the early days after surgery, activities that cause breathlessness and increased heart rate will work against you and the healing process. While it will vary depending on the individual and the severity of the procedure, it may take three to four weeks before your doctor gives you the green light to get moving again.

Even though rhinoplasty is relatively minor compared to other surgical procedures, you should be measured about your reintroduction to exercise and not expect to start where you left off before the operation. It’s essential that you ease into your routine over several weeks, if not months, and listen to your body. Contact sports are out of the question for nearly half a year. Although your nasal bones should be fairly well-healed within six weeks or so, you shouldn’t participate in any activity that significantly increases the chances of reinjuring your nose.

Putting Ice on It

In the hours and days following surgery, you want to be mindful of the swelling that typically occurs. Plastic surgery ice packs should be applied near your nose, rather than directly on it to manage inflammation and pain. Placing the pack on your cheeks rather than your nose will ensure you don’t undo any of the work you just endured. The best time for an ice compress is roughly 72 hours after the procedure. 

This principle of keeping things cool should apply to as many lifestyle choices as possible during your recovery. Avoid saunas, hot showers, and maybe even hot yoga once you’re cleared for exercise. Your diet should also minimize hot temperatures and spicy food as well. The goal is to reduce swelling, and heat exacerbates the issue. This stage of the healing process can last a few weeks following the surgery.

Head Elevation

Sleeping may be tricky for a while, especially if you’ve developed specific habits. If you’re someone who tosses and turns at night, then this is a challenging prospect. Sleeping on your side can easily mess with your new nose, and it goes without saying that the experience can be pretty painful as well.

The typical recommendation is to sleep on your back with your head elevated for at least a week, and then your doctor will advise you based on your individual progress. Be prepared with a battery of soft pillows and the determination to change years of sleep patterns if necessary. The ultimate goal is to get your nose healed as fast as possible. Expect to adhere to a strict regimen after surgery to accelerate your recovery. Just remind yourself that by following the doctor’s orders, you can revert to your normal lifestyle the sooner. Unless you’re diligent, you not only risk prolonging the process, but also potentially damage the results of the procedure and cause undue pain.