A rhinoplasty can help improve the shape of your nose, increase or reduce its size and eliminate any breathing difficulties you may be experiencing. A skilled and experienced surgeon will do their best to ensure the procedure is a success and there are no complications. However, you also have a responsibility to follow the doctor’s instructions and achieve pleasant results. Ideally, the bones in your nose can take up to six weeks after your surgery to heal. The tenderness in your nose will often take three months to fully subside. This is just the tip of the iceberg. Here are a few tips on how to accelerate your recovery after a nose job. 

Don’t take painkillers unless prescribed to you

It is normal to feel pain after the anaesthesia wears off. However, a high dosage of painkillers can disrupt the healing process or cause adverse complications. We strongly recommend that you stick to the prescribed dose of painkillers and be patient with your body as it continues to heal. 

Walk often 

After a nose job, fluids can easily build up inside your body. You may also experience excessive swelling that will disrupt the healing process and cause you to develop complications. A great way to nip these problems in the bud and speed up recovery after surgery would be to take short walks around the block. Walking improves blood circulation to your nose and helps alleviate stress. 

Avoid anti-inflammatory medication

Anti-inflammatory medication tends to increase swelling and blood flow in your body. According to Dr. Engineer, rhinoplasty surgeon, some medicines can lead to excessive bleeding post-operation. You could develop complications that might hinder your nose from healing properly. Therefore, it would be best to avoid anti-inflammatory medication unless you have the green light from your doctor. 

Don’t engage in strenuous activities

A nose job is a major operation that takes its toll on your body. It would be wise to focus all your energy on healing your nose to get the best results. Therefore, we suggest you steer clear of any strenuous activities that would force you to bend or carry heavy loads. Ask for help from your friends and family until you are strong enough to do things independently. 

Use a flexible ice pack

Within the first few days after your rhinoplasty, it would be best to place a flexible ice pack on your nose. The low temperatures restrict blood flow to the area, preventing the site from swelling too much. An ice pack can also provide some relief by reducing the pressure on your newly-operated nose.

Opt for baths instead of showers

Your surgeon will place splints, supports, and bandages on your nose after your surgery to aid in the healing process. However, these bandages and supports shouldn’t get wet. You are better off soaking in a bath instead of standing in the shower to help keep your bandages dry. Ensure you use a damp cloth around your bandages to prevent them from getting wet. 

Final thoughts

In a nutshell, ensure you follow the doctor’s post-op instructions to speed up recovery. Follow some of the tips we have covered to help you heal faster after a nose job. As a rule of thumb, try to keep your head elevated after the surgery. It will help prevent blood from rushing to your head and causing you swelling, pain, or discomfort. If you are planning to do a rhinoplasty, then ensure you use a board-certified plastic surgeon to avoid recovery complications.