How can you reduce swelling after rhinoplasty?

Whenever you undergo surgery, swelling cannot be avoided. Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure used to change or enhance the size, shape, projection, or angle of the nose. The surgery can be done to improve the function as well as the appearance of the nose. To achieve the required results, the surgery may require altering or fracturing the bones in the nose while doing the surgery. If the procedure requires bone manipulation, it may lead to swelling which can last for many months. However, there are some things you can do to minimize your swelling after rhinoplasty:

Before the surgery

Your surgeon will provide specific instructions that you should start to follow two weeks prior to your surgery. Some of the instructions are about the medications to avoid before the surgery and how to prepare the body to go through the healing process. There are some medications that may lead to some changes in the body and they may lead to problems during and after the surgery like more swelling or prolonged swelling. By avoiding these substances leading up to your procedure, you can help minimize the swelling you experience.

After the surgery

You should expect to experience some bruising and swelling after the surgery. The surgery is different for every patient and the extent of swelling and bruising will also be different.

The most noticeable swelling may last up to two weeks. It will take a long period for the swelling in the nose to heal completely, but there are some things you can do to speed up the process and maximize your comfort.

Use cold compresses:

From the first day of the surgery, start to use a cold compress in the area around the nose. You can use cold compresses near the eyes, cheeks, and forehead.

Keep the head elevated:

You must ensure that your head is always above the heart level, including when you sleep or rest. You should also avoid bending down to avoid increased blood flow to the head, resulting in increased swelling.

Walking:

Even if you may not be feeling up to moving around much, you should get up and try to move around or go for a walk to improve your circulation and help with the healing process.

If you have any questions about your rhinoplasty procedure or recovery process, Dr. Berman will be there to provide you with all the necessary information. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today!