Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular plastic surgeries right now. It changes the size and shape of the nose so you look good and breathe without any hassle.
Even when carried out by a board-certified practitioner, you would not see the final effect of rhinoplasty right away. The recovery process takes time. The following write-up specifies a rough outline along with steps that can speed it up.
Recovery Timeline
The average recovery time of rhinoplasty is almost one year. That may sound like a lot but seems much more manageable when categorized into weeks. Remember, the recovery milestones mentioned below vary from one patient to another.
Week 1- Remove the splint from the nose and go out without any noticeable signs unless of course if you experienced bruises under your eyes. It is fine to resume day-to-day activities.
Week 2- Most of facial inflammation and bruising will subside.
Week 3-4- Return to cardiovascular exercises such as swimming, cycling, and jogging.
Week 6- The bones will be quite stable by the sixth week, so, you may lift weights, blow your nose, and put on glasses.
Month 3-6- The abnormal sensations and numbness in the nasal skin and the nose will disappear.
According to the experts performing plastic surgery Fairfax VA said after one year, your healing process will be complete. You would not have any more swelling and your nose will acquire its brand-new outlook.
Are there ways to speed up the above timeline? Yes! There are a few things that you may do to set your nose right within a short period. Try only after you have consulted your surgeon and got approval.
Effective Tips
Listen to the Body- A surgeon can see how well the rhinoplasty recovery is going externally, but, only you can know how your insides are feeling. Listen to what your body is trying to say. If something feels wrong, get examined immediately.
Keep the Head Elevated- Sleeping on the side post-rhinoplasty is not just discomforting but can also lengthen healing by causing additional swelling and bruising. This position can also displace the nose. So, keep the head elevated for at least six weeks. A recliner works but the easiest way is to prop three or four pillows.
In case you turn and toss, you can keep the head in appropriate place with travel pillow or encompass your head by rolling the towels.
Apply Cold Compress- After the first three days, apply cold compress since it alleviates swelling. Just make sure to not place the compress under the nose directly. Apply on the cheeks instead so it does not shift the cartilage or bones.
Take Plenty Rest-Nasal congestion is a major side-effect. It prevents you from falling asleep but again rest is an integral part of recovery. The body utilizes all of its energy to heal, and getting a solid eight to nine hours of sleep every night gives it enough time to restore the lost energy.
Stay Cool-The professionals providing rhinoplasty Rockville said heat can cause the tissues in the nose to inflame. This is why you must stick to cool goods and avoid relaxing saunas, steamy showers, and hot soups.
Just like any surgical procedure, rhinoplasty takes time to produce results. Your nose needs to first recover, and then it can look and function the way you desire. Be patient and make sure to implement the aftercare tips diligently.