Having a nose job is a big decision and one that virtually no patient takes lightly. The impact of rhinoplasty affects the entire face and, as such, it affects how you feel on a daily basis. Getting the best results from a nose job is a team effort that includes your surgical team, your support team after surgery, and yourself. Here, we discuss some of the things you want to think through as you plan for your best rhinoplasty outcome.

Choose the Right Plastic Surgeon for You

It isn’t only important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon about rhinoplasty. It is important that you find the right surgeon for you. There aren’t many plastic surgeons out there who haven’t seen patients who were interested in revision surgery to correct issues that stemmed from miscommunication between a patient and their previous doctor. As much as possible, we try to prevent this. As the patient, you can help minimize the risk of unrealistic expectations, too. You can do this by meeting several doctors and asking questions about their experience, clinical training, and expectations. As you do this, you will get a feel for how comfortable the doctor makes you and how much confidence you have in their ability to achieve the results that will look the most natural on your face.

Plan Your Recovery

Rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure. What happens after surgery is as crucial to the outcome as what happens during surgery, so advanced planning is necessary. Some suggested ways to prepare for your rhinoplasty recovery include:

• Have ice packs in the freezer that are ready to use right away after surgery.
• Begin “sleep training” before surgery if necessary. If you tend to sleep on your stomach or side, you will need to learn to sleep on your back.
• Prepare at least one week’s worth of healthy meals ahead of time. Make them as healthy and easy to heat as possible.
• Set aside tops that button or zip up the front. You will want to wear these instead of pull-over tops to reduce the risk of accidentally bumping the nose.
• Arrange for help with even simple tasks around the home for about a week.

Follow Your Plastic Surgeon’s Post-Op Instructions

Rhinoplasty patients receive detailed aftercare instructions from the office. These should be followed to a tee, including when to take medication. Regardless of how good you feel, it is highly recommended that you continue taking prescribed pain medication as directed for at least a few days. Switching to over-the-counter medication too soon or forgetting to take pain medication at regular intervals could result in a situation where you’re chasing pain that you can’t seem to get ahead of.

Your post-operative instructions will also include recommendations for activity restrictions. You will not be able to exercise for at least two weeks after surgery and may be instructed to avoid strenuous activity for up to six weeks. This initial period is crucial for healing and one during which the risk of complications is higher. Other than gentle walks, you should refrain from physical activity, strictly avoiding any that present a risk of bumping the nose, including playing with children and pets.

Pace Your Recovery

Hands down, one of the most beneficial tactics for surgical recovery, and one of the most challenging, is to slow down. This can be especially true once you start feeling more energetic and confident in your healing. The full recovery from rhinoplasty can take months and, while you can gradually resume all of your normal activities, it is necessary to take the time and space that your body demands to heal optimally.

Rhinoplasty surgery is a life-changing decision and one that requires deep consideration and planning. We’re here to help you start your journey! To schedule a consultation with Dr. Regina Rosenthal, contact us at (408) 559-4700.