Rhinoplasty
Open rhinoplasty is a major nose reshaping cosmetic surgery technique that is often recommended for patients who seek aesthetic or functional corrections of the nose. The procedure will usually involve a significant recovery process, but the actual recovery period can vary from one patient to another. Patients should be committed to following the surgeon’s recovery instructions for best results.
At the time of pre-op consultation, the surgeon will discuss various aspects of open rhinoplasty, including the estimated recovery time.
The patient should feel free to ask questions and make a decision only after they are fully satisfied with the procedure plan. Majestic and committed facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Eric Yavrouian provides open rhinoplasty to patients in Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Greater Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA, and other suburbs and towns in this part of California.
Initial Period of Recovery
In the first few days following open rhinoplasty, most patients will experience mild discomfort in the treated area. Occasional dull headaches may occur in the beginning. Unless the patient gets an infection, severe pain will not occur after this cosmetic surgery. Nasal congestion may take place due to internal swelling in the first few days. The surgeon may prescribe some pain medications to keep the patient comfortable in the first week.
The nasal congestion will resolve over a few weeks as the swelling subsides. Patients who suffered from breathing difficulties through the nostrils prior to the surgery are likely to receive quick relief despite the swelling. Some patients may complain of sleep disturbance due to nasal congestion, which can be addressed sleep aid medications prescribed by the surgeon.
The patient will be required to refrain from blowing the nose in the first few days after open rhinoplasty. Experienced and sagacious facial surgeons can delicately handle the nasal tissue to minimize the trauma, and reduce the recovery time.
Returning to Work
Most patients can resume their regular routine or return to their workplace in about one week to 10 days after open nose surgery. During the first week, a cast may be in place on the nose, which may be removed along with sutures and drainage tubes after a week. Mild bruising and swelling may continue in the second week, but the patient can apply makeup to tone down its appearance.
How to Reduce Recovery Time?
The patient should minimize infection risks by keeping the incision areas as contamination-free as possible. The surgeon may also prescribe a course of antibiotics for a few days. The patient should strictly avoid smoking during the recovery period. Nicotine in cigarette smoke can reduce the oxygen flow in the blood, and lead to slow healing.
The surgeon will advise the patient to avoid strenuous activities and lifting of heavy weights for three to four weeks. The incision sites should have minimal strain until the healing is better. However, short walks and light activities at home are encouraged from the second day of the surgery to promote blood flow and expedite healing.
Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Yavrouian receives patients from Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Greater Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA, and other towns and communities in this geographical area of SoCal for open rhinoplasty.
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.
