The nose is the most stuck-out organ from the face and does not comprise any extra protection. Facial injuries are often accompanied by harm to the nose in the majority of cases. Any kinds of accidents with vehicles, other persons, equipment, sports injuries, or falls can cause injuries to both the internal and external structure of the nose. The nose is a very sensitive and delicate part of the body including fine bones, tissues, and cartilage. Rhinoplasty or “nose job” can transform the appearance of the nose by modifying the shape, size, and overall structure. In addition to the cosmetic advantages, this procedure can enhance the airflow in the nasal cavity by removing any obstructions. But after successful surgery, it is key to safeguard the nose until it heals completely.
Why is it important to protect the nose after rhinoplasty?
Protecting the nose after rhinoplasty is equally significant as the recovery process. As the nose is always exposed due to its dominant placement on the face and no natural shield from external sources. Any individual has high susceptibility of having an injury to the nose from any kind of accident, a fall, or a sports activity. Rhinoplasty can be the best solution for modifying the shape of the nose and get your best appearance.
But after this procedure, as the nose heals from rhinoplasty surgery, it will be still more sensitive and weak for some days. The structure will gain the best strength after around 2months until which you will have to take some measures to protect it appropriately. It will not only ensure to allow optimal healing of your nose but also avoid the instance of revision rhinoplasty.
How to protect the nose after rhinoplasty?
Follow the instructions from the specialist doctor:
Your primary task is to accurately, follow the instruction from your specialist doctor. You may find several suggestions for rhinoplasty recovery, but your surgeon will be the ideal person to give you clear details about accurate and individual care. They will give you precise instructions on the type and schedule of required medications, taking care of the treatment region, follow-up sessions, and resumption of strenuous physical activities. But the doctor will be able to observe how is the recovery continuing externally, but it is only the specific patient will understand the internal discomforts. Keep looking for any abnormal signs after surgery, and contact the doctor immediately if needed.
Do not take medications that are prohibited after surgeries:
Along with the prescribed medications, it is also suggested to stay away from medicines that contain ibuprofen or aspirin for the prescribed time after the procedure. Failing to do so would cause bleeding disorders, which can have a big impact on the final results of the rhinoplasty surgery.
Don’t blow your nose:
Resist the feeling of blowing the nose for some weeks after the procedure. Your doctors may advise you to use a nasal spray for around a month after which you can resume normal functions like blowing.
Sleep with your head in an elevated position:
Sleeping on the side after rhinoplasty can increase the recovery time by increasing the swelling and discomfort. Keep your head elevated while sleeping for few days after the procedure.
Wear sunscreen:
Wearing sunscreen is not only important for saving the skin from harmful sun rays but also safeguard the nose from discoloration and other sun damages. After a rhinoplasty procedure, you must wear sunscreen on the face and nose for at least a year. UV rays from the sun may cause sunburn even after several months after the procedure, but the excess sun can also lead to abnormal scarring in the target region.
Rest:
You may find it difficult to sleep for the initial days after the procedure, but taking appropriate rest is a key step of the daily recovery process. A body will need a sufficient amount of sleep daily to recover from the daily activities and get ready for carrying the next day with full energy. Refrain from playing sports such as baseball, football, basketball, volleyball, or similar ones where you have more risk to hit your nose. You can also wear a facial mask to decrease the risk of any facial injuries. It is key for a rhinoplasty patient to be aware of the nose for around 3 to 6 months after the surgery. Avoiding instances of accidental injuries to the nose is key to the success of the surgery and also avoiding revision rhinoplasty.
Cleaning the nose:
You must clean the nose as per the suggestions from your doctor for several days after the procedure. It will help in the healing of the wounds inside the nose, mainly in the case of open rhinoplasty. The bone and cartilage must be healed at a proper pace and you must follow all the important instructions in cleaning the nose without fail.
Healthy diet:
Consuming a balanced diet will surely enhance the process of your recovery by supplying the body with all the essential nutrients needed for healing. Protein is a vital element of the skin, muscle, cartilage, and blood that will aid in restructuring the target region. Care must also be taken to consume enough vitamins, especially Vitamin A and Vitamin C. While Vitamin A, is the best immunity builder that can aid you to eliminate any infections after the surgery, Vitamin C has a key part in building collagen, which is the essential protein for skin rejuvenation.
Final thoughts:
Following the steps mentioned above may not heal your rhinoplasty nose immediately, but it will aid in supporting optimal recovery while also improving the post-surgery experience. Cache Valley Facial Plastics is a leading service offering reconstructive and cosmetic facial plastic surgery. The team of local physicians has top-notch training and the firm has over 75 years of combined experience in a comprehensive type of facial plastic and reconstructive surgical treatments. We offer reconstructive procedures for facial deformities occurring from genetic abnormalities, cancer, and accidental trauma.
