Rhinoplasty surgery accounts for about 200,000 procedures every year in the United States. There’s no breakdown of the cosmetic versus functional reasons behind the surgeries, and sometimes this nose procedure addresses both. It’s one of the top five plastic surgeries performed.
The nose is part of the complex anatomy of the face, and its importance as part of your breathing system means that any surgical procedure is equally complex, with success depending on a range of factors, including the skill of your surgeon and your self-care during the recovery phase.
Choosing Advanced Facial Surgery solves one major issue. Dr. Manolis Manolakakis is a fully qualified facial surgery expert with extensive experience in the structures of the face and how they work together. Dr. Manolakakis specializes in rhinoplasty, so you’re assured the finest care.
Since bruising and swelling are an unavoidable result of surgery, the weeks after your procedure are crucial to the final result. While recovery can’t be rushed, there are things you can do to ensure that healing proceeds as quickly as possible.
Follow the med rules
As part of your preparation, you receive instructions on post-procedure medications. Though it might seem logical to use anti-inflammatories like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, these aren’t the best options for swelling resulting from your surgery. Precisely follow the recommendations given by Dr. Manolakakis for the fastest healing.
Ice it away
Flexible ice packs are essential during the first few days after surgery. You can use commercial ice packs, or you may improvise with a small bag of frozen peas. Icing during this period helps blood vessel constriction, which reduces swelling. The more you keep swelling down, the quicker your nose heals.
Moderate activity
Avoid strenuous exercise after surgery, but do include walking as soon as possible. This improves circulation in your body, which supports effective drainage, a key factor in limiting inflammation.
Stay rested
Healing after rhinoplasty takes time. You should block off 7-10 days after your procedure. Even if you feel great, limit your activity and rest frequently. This allows your body to assign maximum healing resources to your face, while reducing the risk of injury.
Change the pace
Two weeks off work may seem like a long time after rhinoplasty, particularly if you’re feeling good. However, it’s essential to take it easy after surgery to sidestep potential complications. Trying to go back to work too soon can extend your recovery time.
Keep on track
Your post-surgery instructions from Dr. Manolakakis aren’t suggestions. They’re your mandatory road map to full recovery. Chances are, you’ll deal with rhinoplasty once while your surgeon sees many. He knows what works, so follow his instructions to the letter for the best results.
Balanced nutrition
There’s a link between nutrition and surgical recovery time. Eating foods packed with an array of vital nutrients supports a quick recovery. Follow all dietary recommendations provided by Dr. Manolakakis and his staff.
Bland is best
If you like to spice up your diet with chilis and pepper, skip these for the first three weeks of recovery. Part of the appeal of spicy foods results from the effects they have on blood vessels. It’s fine when you’re healthy, but it works against rhinoplasty recovery.
Skip the salt
Likewise, salt makes food more palatable but it increases fluid retention, aggravating the swelling you seek to avoid. Follow a low-sodium diet for the first two weeks after your surgery. Focus on lean proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, and high-fiber foods. All of these options are naturally low in sodium.
Follow through on follow-up
Don’t skip follow-up appointments with Advanced Facial Surgery, even if you’re feeling great.
Your scheduled post-operative appointments catch small issues before they become advanced, possibly even before you notice symptoms.
It takes a team effort to assure your rhinoplasty goes as planned, and you’re one of the team. Find out more about rhinoplasty recovery by contacting Advanced Facial Surgery by phone or online at either office location.
Staying informed and on track is the quickest way to see the final results of your procedure. Book now.