The Dos and Don’ts After Rhinoplasty Surgery
Posted February 08, 2023 in Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)
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…
Meet The DoctorDon’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.
Dr. David Gilpin is Nashville’s most accomplished dual board-certified facial plastic surgeon and the founder of Gilpin Facial Plastics, the city’s largest facial plastic surgery and medspa practice. With advanced fellowship training under one of the world’s leading experts in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Gilpin brings extensive knowledge, skill, and experience to every procedure he performs. He is particularly recognized for his expertise in facelift plastic surgery, delivering natural-looking facelifts that enhance facial harmony while preserving each patient’s unique features. Committed to continual learning and innovation, Dr. Gilpin stays at the forefront of facial rejuvenation techniques to provide patients with the most advanced and cutting-edge facelift procedures available.
Renowned for his personalized approach to both surgical and non-surgical facial procedures, Dr. Gilpin is known for achieving refined, long-lasting, and natural results. He has been featured in Nashville Lifestyles, recognized as a RealSelf Top Doctor, and regularly serves as a national speaker, sharing his expert knowledge with peers across the country. Handpicked by his peers as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor for the past six years and selected by Allergan to host the official Allergan Botox Day celebration two years in a row, Dr. Gilpin is trusted by A-list clients and respected colleagues alike. His leadership, experience, and compassionate care firmly establish him as one of the most sought-after facial plastic surgeons in Nashville, TN, and the eastern United States.
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