What to expect after surgery (Post-Op)

After your rhinoplasty (nose job), the doctor will place packing inside the nose and cover it with a splint to protect it. While the packing is removed within a few days following Rhinoplasty, splints and stitches are normally removed after 7-14 days.

Recovery

For the first 24 hours following your Rhinoplasty (nose job), one of the most important steps in recovery is to stay in bed or rest with your head elevated. Rhinoplasty is a complex procedure making a "nose job" more painful than some facial plastic procedures. You may manage pain with over-the-counter medications or the surgeon may prescribe medication for any significant pain following a rhinoplasty (nose job). The worst pain should subside 24 hours after your nose job.

Swelling, bruisng and bleeding are common side-effects of Rhinoplasty (nose job) surgery. Swelling and bruising is worst two to three days following a Rhinoplasty (nose job), lasts approximately two to three weeks and can be treated with cold compresses. Stuffiness following a Rhinoplasty (nose job) can last for a few weeks. Bleeding may persist the first few days after a Rhinoplasty (nose job). Your surgeon will advise you to not blow your nose, or bend over for at least one week.

It's important to follow the doctor's post-op instructions including care for the surgical site and the use of any medications following a rhinoplasty (nose job). You'll be given a list of complications to watch for and a schedule for following up with your plastic surgeon.

You'll be asked to avoid strenuous activity including sports and weight lifting and to refrain from airline travel for a few weeks following a Rhinoplasty (nose job). It's vital to avoid any activity which places you at risk for suffering an impact to the nose and nasal area. You'll also be advised to not wear glasses that sit directly on the bridge of your nose for at least six weeks following your rhinoplasty (nose job). Patients with glasses will need to prop them up on their cheeks or tape them to their forehead.