Activities That May Hinder Your Rhinoplasty Recovery
Rhinoplasty is a delicate surgical procedure that requires several weeks and even months of downtime to achieve a full recovery with optimal results. Despite this fact, when cabin fever sets in during the recovery process, it becomes a test of will and personal fortitude just being able to stay in bed and not resume normal activities that can interfere with – or even undo – your surgery.
Dr. Bustillo recommends a safe five days of downtime or very low-level activity after nasal surgery. These are the most critical days of healing. The soft skin around the eyes may show signs of slight bruising and there may be swelling. Breathing may become more difficult at first.
It also takes several hours for the anesthesia to wear off after surgery. So, don’t think about driving a car for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Don’t drink alcohol or mix prescription drugs with pain medicines without your doctor’s advice. A drug interaction could lead to a fall – and an injury.
Remember also that rhinoplasty is a delicate, complicated surgical procedure, which means that you should never blow your nose for the first week. Gently wipe your nose instead with a clean hanky. After the first week, you can begin nasal irrigations with nasal saline spray.
If you work at a physical job or spend time at the gym, do not lift anything over 10 pounds at home while you are in recovery. The strain of lifting may not only be painful but it may also harm the careful results of the procedure. In fact, any activity that strains the facial muscles should be avoided so that the healing process continues uninterrupted and stress-free.
Play it smart. Play it safe. Learn to live with the downtime and prepare to enjoy the results of a successful surgical procedure.
Dr. Andres Bustillo is a board certified facial plastic surgeon located at 6705 Red Road Suite 706, Coral Gables, FL. Call (786) 533-1535 for a personal consultation.