Rhinoplasty Recovery

A Blog on Quick Rhinoplasty Recovery from Dr. Loftus

There is no need to dread the recovery from Rhinoplasty surgery. There are a few very important things you can do to get back to your life with minimal interruption and fast.

Elevate your head

Keeping your head elevated reduces existing swelling and further swelling. Sleep and rest with your head elevated for the first week after surgery. Try to remain at a 45 degree angle for maximum effect. You want your head above your heart.

Apply ice packs like clockwork

Apply ice packs to the areas around your cheeks, nose and eyes. You should apply the ice packs for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, followed by a 15 minute break. Stick to this routine while you are awake for the first 3 days and your swelling will go away quickly. Icing this frequently is not totally necessary, but if you want the swelling down ASAP, this will make a big difference.

Minimize activity

Activity can elevate your blood pressure, which causes more swelling. You do not have to lay in bed all the time during recovery, but take frequent breaks from your daily acitivities and avoid exertion or heavy lifting.

Use Arnica

Arnica is a useful herbal preparation that can be used in pill form or as a topical cream. If cleared by your plastic surgeon, these products speed resolution of bruising and swelling.

Camouflage makeup

Mineral makeup can be used to cover up bruising almost immediately after surgery. Do not get anyting on your incision until cleared by your plastic surgeon.

Rhinoplasty can provide significant improvement to the shape of your nose. That explains why it remains among the top five cosmetic surgery procedures year after year. Follow these simple steps and you will be enjoying your new appearance before you know it.