Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that aims to modify and reconstruct the nose in order for it to look and function as intended. Cosmetic treatments have gained popularity because they can treat sinus problems, breathing issues and deformities, additional info?
Many people who undergo rhinoplasty wish to see the desired outcome immediately. Recovery takes time. Certain tips can help speed up the healing process and ensure that the nose, as well as the surrounding skin, heals properly. To learn more, read the rest of this article.
Recovery Timeline
According to a Fairfax VA rhinoplasty surgeon, the average recovery time is a year. This may seem like a long time, but it becomes more manageable when you categorize the recovery into a timeline. Although the milestones may vary from patient to patient, they generally follow the same pattern:
Week 1 Remove the splint and go outside without showing any visible signs of surgery, unless there are bruises on your eyes. The patient can also return to their normal daily activities.
Week 2 The swelling of the face and most of the bruises subside. If the reaction is abnormal, patients should seek medical attention immediately.
Weeks 3 and 4 Patients are able to go to the gym with no hassle. The patients can safely engage in cardio-vascular activities like swimming, cycling and jogging.
Week 6 The bones surrounding the nose have stabilized and the patients can perform strenuous exercises, including weightlifting.
From Month 3 to 6 Strange sensations and numbness in the nasal area subside. The final shape of the nose begins to emerge.
After a year- Healing is complete. All side effects, including inflammation, discoloration and pain, will resolve. Now, the nose looks more visually appealing with its newly refined shape.
Aftercare Tips
In order to speed up the above timeline, patients should follow their doctor’s advice. Most practitioners, for example, stressed the importance of listening to your body. Do not hesitate to express your concerns if you feel something is wrong, however minor.
Keep Head Elevated – Sleeping sideways after rhinoplasty can not only be uncomfortable, but can also cause swelling and bruising. This will unnecessarily delay the recovery. For at least six weeks, keep the head elevated. Sleeping on three to four pillows is the easiest way.
Maintain a Balanced diet- A balanced meal provides your body with the nutrients needed to heal. Foods high in protein, such as eggs, meat, dairy, fish, yogurt and nuts are recommended. Protein is a crucial building block for muscle, cartilage and skin. Vitamin A in leafy vegetables helps to strengthen the immune system. Vitamin C from citrus fruits also contributes to collagen regrowth.
Stay Cool-Hot soups, steamy showers, saunas, etc. Although they may be tempting, hot soups, steamy showers, saunas and other similar activities can exacerbate a bloated nose. Heat causes tissues in the nose to swell. So, avoid the sun, and take lukewarm showers.