Recovery from any surgery will result in some uncomfortable side effects and a healing period. Find out what you should expect when recovering from rhinoplasty surgery.

Choosing a Good Surgeon is the First Step in a Healthy Recovery

Thorough research of surgeon choices is your first defense against a difficult surgery and recovery. The important part of choosing a surgeon is to check his or her education and experience. Patients should select a board-certified surgeon with extensive experience performing rhinoplasty surgery. A competent surgeon will contribute to a successful and well-done surgery, and a good surgical experience is the start to a good recovery.

Prepare for Splints

Internal or external splints may be placed and removed shortly after surgery. This may be the most uncomfortable part of the surgery for some people, because it affects breathing. Surgical packs in the nasal area may also be placed in certain surgical situations involving turbinate and septal surgery.

The splint has adhesive materials needed to hold it in place. The normal time period expected to endure this part of the recovery is about one week to ten days. A longer splint application can inhibit possible damage that may occur to skin and tissues. During this time, it is important for patients to remember that the splints will improve the overall outcome of surgery. The desired results may not be achieved if the splint is removed to early. It is important to be patient with healing time to avoid the possibility of further recovery or another surgery. The bruising and swelling that accompanies the healing process will last another week or two.

Possible Side Effects

The bruising will typically be gone before all of the effects of surgery have dissipated. The surgical site will look close to normal in about two weeks. However, the site will most likely remain sore, numb, or delicate. It is advised to avoid intense physical activity, including sports, to prevent the possibility of collisions or being hit with balls and other equipment.

The skin around the surgical site may also remain numb for up to a year. It is important to apply sunscreen and dress appropriately for weather during this time. The lack of feeling can lead to unintentional damage to the surface of the surgical site.

While recovery time may seem to come with inconveniences, it is important to remember the consequences that may result due to the absence of precautionary behavior. Healing can be delayed if the patient is not careful with his or her new facial reconstruction, and the absence of proper recovery protocol may present a less than desirable appearance change. A repeat surgery may also need to be performed in severe cases of neglect and injury.

Healing Time

Healing typically occurs in stages. The first two weeks are the most difficult, as this is when side effects are most severe. After two weeks, many side effects subside significantly. Six weeks after surgery, patients should be able to see the results of surgery. However, complete healing may take up to one year.

For more information about recovering from rhinoplasty, contact Dr. Paul Pin today.