Rhinoplasty: How to Shorten Your Recovery Period

The recovery process is a very crucial part in the success of a rhinoplasty procedure. This final stretch can actually make or break the outcome, and it highly relies on the way you follow aftercare protocols set forth by the surgeon. 

In this article, I will be sharing 8 best tips that you can follow to shorten your recovery period.

1. Arnica Montana

This is a homeopathic treatment that can shorten recovery time because it reduces the swelling and bruising. These two are actually the main culprits for prolonged healing because it also lengthens the time that a wound closes. Arnica comes in two forms, the pill and the cream form. The pill can be taken  several days before and after surgery, while the cream is applied on the surgical site once the wound has totally healed.

2. Bromelain

This is a natural enzyme that is derived from pineapples, and it can significantly reduce swelling and pain. Just like arnica, this treatment can also be taken a week prior to surgery and one to two weeks after surgery. Bromelain is marketed under a variety of brands in the market today.

3. Elevate your head.

Elevating your head is also important in reducing swelling because it drains the excess fluids, which is a result of healing. Thanks to the force of gravity, fluids will naturally flow out of your system reducing swelling and bruising.

Related Post: Asian Rhinoplasty- The Risks of Using Nasal Silicone Implants 

4. Avoid foods that would require a lot of chewing.

It is advisable to keep steaks off bay as you heal from rhinoplasty because the constant motion can create strain on the area.

5. Lessen the intensity of your exercise regimen for at least two weeks after nose surgery.

It is best to avoid strenous exercise for the first two weeks after surgery. Doing this can lengthen healing time because it stresses the body out. Take it easy, and let your body heal. Also, rigorous exercise just might damage the result with all the movements that you make.

6. Steer clear from hot showers.

Hot showers are not advisable during the initial weeks of healing because the hot temperature can only worsen the swelling. It is also important that you keep hot water from hitting the surgical site directly because these areas are still fragile.

7. Keep your glasses off for the meantime.

If you wear glasses, it is best that you keep them off for the first three weeks after the cast has been removed. This is to avoid any pressure on the healing structures underneath. Every surgeon has their own time frame, so it is best to clarify this with your surgeon first.

8. Make sure to inform you surgeon of all the medications you are taking.

It is very important that you inform the surgeon of any medications or supplements that you are taking. Some of these medications may cause bleeding or it could generally prolong healing time. When your surgeon is informed of these, he can coordinate with your primary care physician on temporarily stopping the medication or going for alternatives.