What is the Recovery Process After Nose Surgery?

An important aspect of rhinoplasty is that the patient and the doctor reach an agreement within a relationship of mutual trust. The main goal of the surgery is to reconstruct the nose according to the patient’s wishes without compromising its primary functions and preserving all its features.

While reshaping the nose for aesthetic purposes, an ENT specialist may perform additional procedures if deemed necessary. Before undergoing rhinoplasty, it is essential to carefully consider potential situations that may arise during the surgery and throughout the recovery period before making a decision.

Age Factor Affects the Surgery

The nose serves important functions in the human body. Rhinoplasty aims not only to support these functions but also to improve facial harmony and aesthetic appearance. The development of all organs is typically completed by the age of 18.

A person under 18 cannot be expected to have fully developed bone and cartilage structures in the nose. The final aesthetic shape also stabilizes after puberty, so rhinoplasty is not performed before the patient turns 18.

What Happens on the First Day After Surgery?

Although often underestimated, rhinoplasty is still a surgical procedure. Swelling and bruising may appear on the face, especially around the nose, upper lip, and eyes. These reactions are common and temporary.

The nose is kept closed after surgery, and a nasal tampon may be applied if necessary. Patients often dislike seeing their face with bruising, but these effects usually subside within 1 to 1.5 weeks.

Showering After Surgery

Showering or bathing is allowed after rhinoplasty, but the operated area should not get wet. Since it is nearly impossible to avoid the nose getting wet while washing hair, patients are advised to take showers instead of full baths during the first few days.

Bandage Duration

Bandages are applied to all patients and remain in place until the recovery process is complete, usually 7 to 10 days. Nasal tampons, which are not applied to all patients, are generally removed sooner at the doctor’s discretion. Patients should never attempt to remove either themselves.

Nasal Tampon Purpose

A nasal tampon is a splint used to protect the newly reshaped nose after surgery. It is commonly applied after procedures that elevate the nasal tip and also helps retain nasal secretions and absorb fluids that may cause discomfort.

Nose Bleeding After Surgery

Tampons are designed to contain nasal fluids, which are not blood but natural secretions. If the fluid turns red, it may indicate a complication, and the patient should contact their surgeon immediately.

Nose Cleaning After Surgery

Patients may experience nasal discharge during the first week. Dried secretions can make breathing difficult, so it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions for cleaning the nose. Using cotton swabs or tissues inside the nose without guidance is highly risky.

Breathing Difficulties

Swelling may make it temporarily difficult to breathe through the nose, leading patients to breathe through their mouths. This can cause dry mouth, so drinking plenty of water is recommended. Applying lip moisturizer can prevent chapped lips.

Sneezing

Patients should not suppress sneezing after surgery. Sneezing can actually help reduce swelling in the nose and surrounding areas.

Resting After Surgery

Patients should sleep with their head elevated for at least 2 days, using two pillows if possible. They must lie on their backs, as lying on the stomach is not possible, and lying on the sides may cause swelling on that side of the face.

Brushing Teeth

Brushing teeth is safe after bandages are removed, but care should be taken not to move the upper lip. A soft-bristled toothbrush should be used, and rapid or harsh movements should be avoided.

Clothing Considerations

Clothing comes into contact with the nose, so patients should avoid garments that may touch it. Front-opening shirts, cardigans, or garments with zippers at the neck reduce the risk of impact.

Diet After Surgery

After surgery, soft and light foods are recommended. On the first day, solid foods should be avoided; fruits and fruit juices are ideal. In the following days, easily swallowable foods such as yogurt, pudding, or soup may be consumed. Foods should neither be too hot nor too cold, and tea and coffee should be avoided for the first two weeks.

Final Appearance

Rhinoplasty results are not immediate. Swelling and bruising may subside within 2 weeks, but the fully reshaped nose may take 6 to 12 months to settle. This varies for each individual.

Going Outside After Surgery

Patients can resume normal activities about two weeks after surgery but must protect themselves from sunlight. Evening hours are ideal, or high-SPF sunscreen should be used during the day.

Alcohol and Smoking

Alcohol and smoking can interact with medications prescribed after surgery. Patients should avoid both until all medications are discontinued following the last doctor’s check-up.