Life After Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, also known as a “nose job,” is one of the most well-known and popular forms of plastic surgery. Patients choose this procedure for a number of reasons, both aesthetic and medical. Some may have breathing issues they’re seeking to address, while others want a particular shape or silhouette for their nose. 

There are several types of rhinoplasty procedures, with the two most commonly performed known as an “open” and a “closed” procedure, respectively. Both of these techniques involve surgical incisions, but other elements will vary depending on the patient’s individual needs and anatomy. The “open” procedure is slightly more invasive but gives the surgeon better access, allowing more involved corrections. The “closed” procedure uses a small incision inside the nose to prevent a visible scar and is typically used for patients who are looking for lower-touch corrections to their nose. In both types of procedures, it’s important to discuss your goals for a rhinoplasty with your surgeon and understand what the best approach for you will be. 

Many patients considering this procedure are curious about what happens after nose job surgery. Recovery varies from patient to patient, but rhinoplasty candidates can expect to experience some swelling, discomfort, and even blood or discharge in the early days following their procedure. This is normal. Following surgery, a splint and bandaging is commonly used to support healing. Before long, you’ll be back to your everyday life with a better-than-new nose.

While healing, however, rhinoplasty patients should be mindful of activities that could lead to injury. There are a number of things to avoid after rhinoplasty; your plastic surgeon will outline all of this with you during your consultation as well as after your procedure. Read on for more information about things to avoid after rhinoplasty.

What Not to Do After Rhinoplasty

Eventually, you’ll be able to enjoy all the activities you love with your brand new nose. While you heal from your rhinoplasty, however, it’s best that you stay away from the following activities. Don’t: 

• Hit the Gym

Strenuous exercise is a huge no-no following many surgeries, including a rhinoplasty. To avoid complications, steer clear of activities like lifting and cardio. Most surgeons will give post-op patients the green light around three weeks after their surgery. However, certain sports, like basketball should be avoided for longer — you don’t want to get hit in the face! 

• Have Sex

Your new look may have you feeling super confident and attractive, but it’s best to wait until you heal before being intimate with your partner. You’re avoiding exercise, which includes sex. For the first three weeks after your procedure, please abstain. 

• Go Swimming

A major rule of thumb with nose job recovery — don’t get it wet. That means no swimming for at least six weeks. It’s best to let your surgeon clear you before diving back into the pool. They’ll also give you tips on how to handle bathing immediately after your procedure.

• Take a Shower

In the days following your surgery, you’ll wear a splint and bandages on your nose. Taking a shower may sound nice, but can get your treatment site wet (which, again, is a no-no). Instead, we recommend taking baths to minimize moisture near your face, and your nose, specifically. 

• Eat Junk Food

By all means, eat whatever you’d like during your day to day. That being said, right after surgery, low-fiber foods without much substance are not the best choice. These can cause constipation, which is a real pain and can place a strain on your treatment site. 

• Hit the Comedy Clubs

We know it’s impossible to avoid laughing and smiling altogether, but in the early days of rhinoplasty recovery it really is best if you can keep a straight face: big facial expressions like laughter can potentially hinder your healing process. Continue with your daily life but maybe save your favorite comedy flick for once you’re healed. 

• Wear Complicated Clothing

Certain garments are not ideal for patients recovering from a rhinoplasty — pullover sweatshirts and turtlenecks can potentially irritate or snag your nose by accident. Instead, go for garments which button in the front, or can be pulled up from below instead of over.

• Blow Your Nose

This one will be tough to avoid, but it is recommended that rhinoplasty patients do not blow their nose following surgery, as it can be dangerous. Many patients will lay low in the week or so preceding their surgery and take precautions to avoid catching a cold or virus. Focus on staying healthy through frequent handwashing, carrying hand sanitizer, and wearing a mask, so you’re healthy going into and coming out of your procedure.

• Sunbathe

Basking in the sun is enjoyable, until it’s not — post-nose-job, too much sun exposure can result in discoloration of the skin. Wearing sunglasses or other glasses are also not recommended during a rhinoplasty recovery. All in all, it’s better to stick to the shade and preserve your skin, especially on your treatment site, post-procedure. Once you have recovered, we recommend you always slather on plenty of sunscreen. In fact, we recommend that even if you haven’t had a nose job — proper sun safety is always crucial.

• Party

Perhaps you indulge in a drink or smoking in your everyday life, but hold off leading up to and following your procedure. This is a critical period for healing and you want your body to be at 100% to do this important work. Stay hydrated and stick to water. 

What About Non-Surgical Nose Jobs?

A non-surgical rhinoplasty is actually a type of filler. It is an outpatient procedure and takes only about 15 minutes. It gives great results that last about six months, making this the ideal option for patients unsure if they’re ready for a permanent change. A non-surgical nose job also offers far more flexibility in terms of what not to do after a non-surgical nose job. As the procedure is minimally invasive, patients can easily get back to their normal life after their procedure.

Rhinoplasty in Houston

For those in Houston hoping for a rhinoplasty, you are in great hands with the Look Younger team. Dr. Leo Lapuerta has been performing plastic surgery for over 20 years, and has over 20,000 procedures under his belt. He is triple board certified, and is respected across the greater Houston area for his professional and welcoming manner. If you would like to meet Dr. Lapuerta for a free consultation, get in touch with our team today by calling (713) 489-0169. We can’t wait to meet you and help you reach your goals.