Making the decision to undergo rhinoplasty can be an exciting time, especially when you anticipate your results. However, it’s essential to know that the most important part of your rhinoplasty journey is your recovery. Rhinoplasty has one of the longest recovery periods of any facial plastic surgery procedure, and it has a direct relationship with your results. Dr. David Gilpin and our team will give you detailed aftercare instructions so you know what to expect from your recovery, but here are some of the most important things to keep in mind as you rest and recover.

Do Sleep in an Elevated Position

If you sleep in a laying down position after surgery, it can increase blood flow to the area and thus increase swelling. Swelling can, in turn, negatively impact your long-term results. When you sleep, make sure to keep your head elevated above your chest. The best way to do this is to sleep on a recliner or a few pillows. Make sure to also avoid sleeping on your side or stomach since this can put pressure on your new nose.

Don’t Make Extreme Facial Expressions

Facial expressions like laughing or smiling can put strain on your new nose and its incisions. When you smile, the muscles of the upper lip and surrounding area can pull on the nose. Although you won’t be able to help the occasional laugh or smile, try to avoid it as much as possible.

Do Be Careful Brushing Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth is another activity that can put strain on the upper lip and nose. When brushing your teeth after rhinoplasty, make sure to be gentle and open your mouth as little as possible. Try to avoid “smiling” or baring your teeth while brushing since this can pull on the incisions.

David Gilpin, MD

Dr. David Gilpin is a native of Nashville, TN. After graduating from Vanderbilt University with a degree in Biomedical Engineering, Dr. Gilpin pursued his M.D. from The University of Tennessee…

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Don’t Exercise Until You’re Healed

Exercising and raising your heart rate can be contributors to swelling, so it’s important to avoid them during your recovery. This can be several weeks – it’s best to consult Dr. Gilpin about the right time to begin being active again and how you can take it in stages. Keep in mind that this doesn’t mean no activity whatsoever – in fact, it’s important to get up and move around the house to keep blood flowing and reduce the risk of health complications.

Do Take 1-2 Weeks Off From Work

This can vary based on your job, but you should generally plan to take 1-2 weeks away from work. There are a few reasons for this – firstly so you can rest and recover. Secondly, you’ll need to limit your activity level and working may put too much strain on your body. Finally, you’ll likely be wearing a splint and dressings for the first few weeks and you may not      feel comfortable being in public. If you work a job that requires manual labor, it’s best to consult Dr. Gilpin about the right time to go back.

Don’t Forget These Additional Tips

There are a few other important adjustments to make during your recovery. If you normally wear glasses, you’ll have to switch to contact lenses or go without for the first few weeks since resting frames on the nose can cause undesired results. Additionally, make sure to wear SPF 30+ when you begin going outside again since sun damage can cause hyperpigmentation. Finally, make sure to wear clothing that fastens in the front and doesn’t need to be pulled over your head until you’re recovered.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re ready to begin your rhinoplasty journey, our double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. David Gilpin can help. To learn more, contact Gilpin Facial Plastics & Aesthetics at our Nashville office by calling or filling out our online form.

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