Nose Reshaping - Aftercare

A rhinoplasty normally does not require a lengthy inpatient stay. Nonetheless, at least one night in the clinic is advisable due to the use of general anaesthesia; larger scale operations and operations in which filling material is used often require a somewhat lengthier stay of up to one week.5,9
In the first days after the operation you can expect mild pains as well as considerable swelling and bruising, especially in the area of the cheeks and the lower lids. However, this should regress within 1-2 weeks. The cooling of the spots mentioned as well as light movement in the form of walking beginning the day after the operation help to increase the rate at which swelling subsides.^4,8

The nasal cast put in place after the operation or the nasal splint used to stabilise the nose's new shape must be worn for 10-14 days; during this time, it is not uncommon for the cast to be replaced once. After the removal of the cast, it is recommended that you wear an adhesive bandage for a few more days. The inner stitches dissolve on their own. To support the regeneration of the mucosa, a nurturing nasal salve can be applied. Because the nasal air flow is often restricted after a rhinoplasty, regular suction in the nose can mean a substantial alleviation for you.⁴

The new nasal shape is typically stable 3-4 weeks after the operation. Please avoid sports activities until then. Other strenuous physical activities as well as anything which would lead to a large increase in blood pressure (e.g. showering with hot water, washing/blow-drying your hair above your head) should be avoided.^4,8

In general, you should be gentle with yourself in the first weeks after the procedure. When blowing your nose, brushing your teeth, or cleaning your face you should proceed very carefully. Plan for at least a downtime of 2 weeks so that the external effects of the operation have sufficient time to fade. The final result of the nose reshaping is first visible after a few months to a year after the procedure.¹⁰

Please speak with the doctor who is treating you about the above-mentioned as well as individual aftercare measures.