More than 200,000 Americans undergo rhinoplasty cosmetic surgery annually for medical and aesthetic benefits such as better breathing, sound sleep, and an enhanced facial appearance.
Following the procedure, patients can expect some inflammation and bruising, and they will need to budget two to three weeks for recovery. It is important not to rush things during the recovery phase. But patients can take a few important steps for a quicker recovery.
Board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Eric Yavrouian provides nose reshaping surgery to patients in Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Greater Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.
Avoid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
The patient should discuss pain management with their surgeon and take only the recommended medicines. While it may seem like a good idea to take anti-inflammatory drugs, these medications dilate blood vessels. This, in turn, can increase inflammation and bleeding, which can prolong the healing time.
Use Frozen Peas to Mitigate Inflammation
During the initial three days following the procedure, it is vital to apply a bag of frozen peas to the eyes and cheek region. This is the area where most of the inflammation and bruising develops. The frozen peas will help the blood vessels shrink which will reduce the inflammation.
Go for a Walk
It is essential to avoid aggressive exercise after nose reshaping cosmetic surgery. However, patients should perform gentle walks as soon as they can. Walking enhances the blood circulation and helps the fluids to keep moving through the body to support a quick recovery. Just make sure you don’t start running with your dog or chasing your child for fun, for instance, – that would be unwise at this stage.
Take it Easy for the Initial Seven to Ten Days
Patients who are always on the go and have a hectic schedule must mentally prepare to take it easy for the initial seven to ten days after nose reshaping surgery. Activities such as playing sports or performing vigorous exercise create extra strain on the body and increase the risk of bumping the nose, both of these aspects can delay the recovery.
Follow a Balanced Diet
Recovery time from surgery and the nutrition status of a patient are interrelated. For instance, low zinc consumption can delay recovery. Consuming foods containing an array of vital nutrients support faster recovery.
Follow Post-Op Guidelines
The surgeon will offer detailed post-op guidelines. The patient should follow these instructions to the letter! Not following post-operative guidelines increases the risk of complications, which can increase the recovery period.
Take the Recommended Time off Work
Some patients believe that they will not require the recommended two weeks off work to heal. But it is important not to underestimate the time that they will need to recover. The patient should, at the very least, plan to take ten days off from their workplace to recover from the procedure.
Avoid Spicy Foods
The initial three weeks are the most important for nose reshaping surgery recovery. Any irritation in the nasal passages or nose may cause complications. Therefore, it is important to avoid spicy foods during this time.
Attend all scheduled Post-op Appointments
The follow-up appointments enable the surgeon to assess the recovery. Even if the patient is feeling good and experiencing a quick recovery, they should not skip their scheduled post-op appointments.
Limit Salt Intake
Salt causes an increase in fluid retention. This can aggravate inflammation during recovery. The patient can help minimize inflammation by following a low-sodium diet for the initial two weeks after their surgery. They should consume nutritious vegetables, fruits, lean protein, and high-fiber foods as these foods are naturally low in sodium.
Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Eric Yavrouian receives patients from Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Greater Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA, and nearby areas for nose reshaping surgery.
For more information about treatments and procedures by Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Eric J. Yavrouian, serving patients in and around Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank and the Greater Los Angeles, CA area call 818-241-2150 or click here to contact him for a consultation.
