My nose hurts a lot after the cast is removed. How is it applied? Addiction to cigarettes. Rehabilitation after rhinoplasty - all possible complications and recommendations Nose after plaster removal

Rhinoplasty is a surgical operation; of course, such an aggressive intervention is stressful for the body. The procedure for correcting the shape of the nose is a complex process, the success of which depends on both the surgeon and the patient. In order for the recovery period to pass as quickly as possible and without complications, you need to know all the intricacies of such an important stage as rehabilitation after rhinoplasty. You should be prepared for the fact that the next day the nose will not recover and take an ideal shape, and will not become a perfect and final version of the changes. We offer to understand the features of such a complex and traumatic procedure as rhinoplasty, the postoperative period of which is characterized by duration, frequent complications and intensive rehabilitation.

When the surgery to correct the shape of the nose is completed, the postoperative recovery period after rhinoplasty begins.

How long the nose heals after rhinoplasty largely depends on how the operation went, on the degree of qualification of the doctor, on the correction method chosen by the surgeon, as well as the individual characteristics of the patient’s body. In the future, the result will depend on how much the patient adheres to the recommendations given by the surgeon.

The recovery period takes from six months to a year. The time depends on many factors, including your general health.

Recovery stages

Regardless of how the correction was performed, the patient goes through the same stages of recovery. The only difference is in the additional means that speed up or facilitate the healing process. For greater clarity, let's look at the tables.

Correction method: closed rhinoplasty

Correction method: open rhinoplasty

Correction method: nose tip rhinoplasty

Common problems of the recovery period for all types of rhinoplasty

In the first week after surgery, you should be prepared for difficulty in facial expressions and painful sensations, which can be eliminated with the help of painkillers prescribed by your doctor. You need to maintain a calm regime, not lead an active lifestyle, and not be subjected to unnecessary worries and stress.

Due to the doctor’s mistake in choosing the surgical technique, the characteristics of the body, and also if all the doctor’s recommendations are not followed, a postoperative complication may occur, including:

• death from anaphylactic shock, but the risk is 0.01%;
• visual defect in the form of worsening changes in the shape of the nose, atrophy of the nasal cartilage or the appearance of spider veins.
• seam divergence or change;
• increased skin pigmentation, hematomas, swelling;
• allergic reaction – spots, itching;
• infection in the wound, tissue necrosis, perforation, osteotomy, toxic shock;
• breathing and smell disturbances.

Also, recovery after rhinoplasty may be accompanied by fever, poor health, weakness, nausea, vomiting, and prolonged pain. In these cases, you should immediately consult a doctor.

If after a year you are not satisfied with the result obtained: asymmetry, unevenness, and roughness are observed, then nose correction is possible.

To ensure faster and better healing of scars, as well as to prevent bone tissue from growing, physiotherapy and massage are used after rhinoplasty. The procedure is carried out with two fingers, weakly pinching the tip of the nose for half a minute. Then the bridge of the nose is also pinched. You need to do this simple massage procedure about 15 times a day.

Removing plaster after rhinoplasty

Each patient can't wait to remove the plaster cast and see their transformed nose, albeit with swelling. The main question they ask is on what day is the cast removed after rhinoplasty? Usually this is 7 – 10 days. Wearing may take longer if necessary. This is voiced directly by the doctor when examining the patient, depending on his individual characteristics.

Removing a cast or splint is a painless procedure, although many people think that it is painful due to the damaged nose. It is worth noting that surgeons are now increasingly resorting to splints - special bandages consisting of a plaster bandage. It looks the most neat and elegant.

To remove the cast:

• the patient lies down or sits down so that the head is in a horizontal position;
• the doctor makes an incision along the edges of the plaster on both sides;
• removes it smoothly. If the bandage fits so tightly that it does not come off, then they resort to an additional device that pries it up, and it comes off in a single layer;
• if there is a plaster under the plaster, then it also comes off;
• There is still a need to remove turundas or splints from the nostrils, which will cause some inconvenience and unpleasant sensations. Although modern hollow and smooth turundas are much easier to remove than before;
• if the procedure does not provide for the sutures to dissolve on their own after a certain period of time, then removing the sutures will also cause discomfort; pain or itching in the nose may occur;
• The final manipulation will be rinsing the nose in order to cleanse it of blood clots and mucus, and also wipe its surface from all contaminants with a disinfectant and antiseptic.

All these manipulations should be carried out by a plastic surgeon who performed rhinoplasty. No way In this case, you cannot carry out this procedure yourself, otherwise the guarantee given by the doctor will not be valid. If any difficulties arise, then you need to seek help from a specialist, and not help yourself, since he will not be responsible for your initiative.

What the patient will see after removing the plaster will be an inaccurate result, since the swelling will completely subside after some time, and the nose will change throughout the year.

Before doing rhinoplasty, you should thoroughly examine yourself before the operation to determine whether it can be completed without any complications or risks. Next, you should follow all the rules and recommendations of the doctor at all stages of rehabilitation.

Prohibitions

During the rehabilitation period after rhinoplasty, you should adhere to the following rules that will help protect your nose from damage:

• It is forbidden to swim in the sea or pool to avoid the possibility of getting the cast or bandage wet. Hot and cold showers, bathing, visiting a bathhouse, solarium are also contraindicated; sunbathing is prohibited;
• You can’t sleep on your stomach or side;
• You can’t eat fatty, fried foods and other unhealthy foods;
• You should not wear heavy glasses that put pressure on your nose to prevent its deformation;
• physical activity should be excluded;
• You should avoid crowded places to eliminate the risk of contracting infectious diseases;
• do not overcool;
• you should wash your face very carefully;
• you cannot touch your face unless necessary;
• Alcohol is prohibited, which cannot be combined with antibiotics and other medications that the doctor will definitely prescribe. Alcohol contributes to swelling and problems with the digestive tract. It is worth remembering that in a state of intoxication, coordination is impaired, which means an increase in injuries, which is unacceptable during rhinoplasty.

Contraindications

What motivates a person when he is ready to go under the surgeon’s knife to get rhinoplasty? This may simply be an aesthetic desire to change the shape of the nose, making it more attractive, or there may be serious health-related indications.

Do not forget about contraindications:

• age up to 18-20 years, when bone tissue continues to change and grow;
• older age from 50 years, when it is impossible to guarantee how the postoperative period after rhinoplasty will go for a patient of this age;
• problems with the cardiovascular system, diabetes, oncology, insufficient blood clotting;
• intolerance to drugs used in anesthesia;
• pregnancy, breastfeeding;
• chronic diseases, colds, weakened immunity, during menstruation.

The operation includes a preparatory stage, during which the patient’s contraindications and intolerance to medications are identified. Also during this period it is necessary to stop smoking and quit this harmful habit until the end of rehabilitation. There may be other recommendations that need to be followed as per the surgeon's requirements.

Every fifth plastic surgery is rhinoplasty. Dissatisfaction with the nose given by nature pushes not only women, but also men under the surgeon’s knife. The operation allows you to change the shape, size, eliminate defects, and normalize breathing. Successful completion of the operation is not enough to obtain positive results. Surgical intervention is followed by unpleasant rehabilitation after rhinoplasty. For those planning an operation, it is important to understand what negative consequences and complications may arise and what to do to speed up recovery.

Typical Side Effects

Edema is recognized as a natural reaction of the body that becomes a response to surgical intervention. After rhinoplasty, this manifestation is at its maximum brightness. The operated tissues swell, the swelling spreads to neighboring areas.

The entire center of the face suffers: nose, under-eyes, cheeks, upper lip. The swelling rarely goes below. The greatest severity of edema is observed after open rhinoplasty.

Performing the operation is fraught the formation of bruises. Operated tissue rarely produces significant hematomas. Especially if the surgeon used a closed intervention technique. The nose is covered with a plaster splint for 1–2 weeks. During this time, local hematomas have time to resolve. Bruises that often appear under the patient’s eyes spoil the appearance.

Bleeding after rhinoplasty stop tampons that completely cover the nasal passages. They disrupt natural breathing. The presence of turuntulas soaked in medical oil and various body fluids can cause an unpleasant odor and negative sensations. A pressure bandage on the nose often causes tissue numbness, and the patient has a desire to scratch the skin.

Removal of additional devices by a doctor does not always bring relief from unpleasant symptoms. Typical side effects during the recovery period include:

• dryness;
• nasal congestion;
• general discomfort.

Attention! Manifestations persist for up to 1.5–3 months, in rare cases longer. The reactions of organisms are individual, the speed of recovery varies.

Possible complications

Patients are often disappointed with the results after removing a plaster cast. The nose appears large and rarely matches the model planned by the surgeon. This is a temporary phenomenon. Patients do not need to be upset about nose enlargement. The picture is spoiled by swelling. After 1.5–3 months the situation returns to normal. The organ will take on a pleasant shape. It is difficult to say how long it will take for the swelling to go away. The swelling can “walk” from the tip to the bridge of the nose for up to six months. Surgeons consider the phenomenon a variant of the norm.

Hardening of the tip of the nose is also associated with the prevalence of swelling. This happens not only after otoplasty. Patients often complain of decreased tissue sensitivity. The tip of the nose becomes numb, swells, and looks unnatural. After the surgeon performs open rhinoplasty, such complications are more pronounced. There is a disruption in tissue nutrition and supporting functions. The hard tip may be preserved as a feature of tissue fixation.

The postoperative period is fraught with breathing problems. Even after removal of the turuntula, the important function is far from normal. The fact that the nose does not breathe is due to swelling of the internal tissues. If the surgeon makes mistakes, an unfavorable picture may persist. Performing closed rhinoplasty contributes to obtaining various unpredictable negative results.

Surgical intervention, supplemented by the need to wear a permanent compression bandage, can affect the quality of the covers. The most unfavorable conditions are created for oily skin. Pore ​​enlargement and formation of local inflammatory processes (pimples) are possible. You will have to be extremely careful in caring for your skin, even after removing the cast. Gentle cleansing with micellar water or similar products is recommended. Doctors prohibit patients from performing traumatic cleansing for 3–6 months.

Photo immediately after surgery

As a result of incorrect actions of the surgeon, individual reactions may formation of a callus, a hump on the bridge of the nose. Sometimes the tip drops, asymmetry occurs, and the patient gets a crooked nose. The problem can only be solved by repeated intervention. The next operation is performed no earlier than six months later. Typically, revision rhinoplasty is performed in an open manner after 1–2 years.

After surgery the body is susceptible infectious diseases. It is important for patients to protect themselves from developing a runny nose. To prevent the disease, surgeons prescribe prophylactic anti-inflammatory drugs to patients. Your doctor will prescribe specific medications. It is important to carry out antiseptic treatment of sutures to prevent infection of wounds. This is especially important after rhinoseptoplasty.

Ways to facilitate rehabilitation

The duration and severity of rehabilitation after rhinoplasty depends on the individual characteristics of the body. The following can affect the quality of the process:

• level of quality of implementation of the intervention;
• compliance with recommendations in the process of preparation and recovery;
• performing additional manipulations prescribed by the surgeon.

The doctor must apply a tight bandage for closed rhinoplasty, and a plaster cast for open surgery. You cannot remove or move the device yourself. Unpleasant sensations (tightness, itching) must be endured. The doctor removes the plaster after 7–10 days. When the bandage has shifted or fallen off on its own, it is necessary to visit the surgeon prematurely. After removing the cast, the doctor will indicate the need to use strips. The duration of use of adhesive fixing strips is determined individually.

The doctor will recommend rinsing the nose after removing the stitches (7-14 days). The procedure helps accelerate the restoration of natural breathing. It is also important to take care of the condition of the scars. Regular antiseptic treatment will prevent the development of inflammation.

For skin care after surgery, it is advisable to use neutral products. You cannot wash your face in the usual way until the cast is removed. The use of cosmetics is also not recommended. It may be difficult to clean your hair after rhinoplasty. Hygiene procedures are carried out by slightly tilting the head back. You can visit a hairdresser and ask others for help.

To speed up healing, the doctor may prescribe a course of physiotherapy. Hardware manipulations after rhinoplasty can improve the condition of the skin, relieve swelling, and facilitate recovery. Procedures begin after 7–14 days. Shown:

• phonophoresis;
• darsonvalization;
• microcurrents.

Note! To prevent the formation of a hump, callus, and to alleviate the general condition, the surgeon prescribes a special massage. The procedure is performed by a specialist. The surgeon categorically prohibits performing classical tissue kneading.

Recovery duration

The standard recovery period after closed rhinoplasty, which proceeds without complications, lasts 1–1.5 months. During this time, the swelling has time to go away, the discomfort subsides, and the stitches are scarred. We can consider the first achievements.

Photo the day after surgery

After open rhinoplasty, the rehabilitation period lasts 2–3 months, if there are no complicating factors. Various manifestations can occur over six months. The second quarter of recovery is considered simpler; negative consequences no longer arise.

Photos of rehabilitation by day

If complications occur, recovery time increases. The duration of elimination of negative consequences is individual. Controversial situations can be resolved only together with a doctor. Complicated rehabilitation can take up to a year. In some cases, repeated surgery is necessary.

Restrictions after surgery

Surgical intervention in the nose area is recognized as a complex plastic surgery. Full recovery takes a long time and is characterized by increased discomfort. To speed up and facilitate rehabilitation and minimize complications, doctors recommend observing a number of restrictions. Standard for most cosmetic procedures and surgical operations is the refusal of:

• tanning in the sun, in a solarium;
• swimming in the pool, open water;
• steaming in hot water, bath, sauna;
• increased physical activity;
• various procedures (massage, hardware, masks, cleansing) without the consent of a doctor.

IN The recovery period after rhinoplasty is characterized by specific limitations. The doctor warns against:

• getting injured;
• diseases of ENT organs;
• wearing glasses;
• sleeping on the stomach, side, without a pillow;
• active facial expressions.

Violations may affect the results of the operation and complicate the ongoing recovery.

If a runny nose occurs, the doctor indicates the impossibility of habitual blowing of the nose. The nose is washed in the indicated way. The discharge can be carefully removed with a cotton swab. You can only sneeze with your mouth open. This relieves pressure inside the nose.

Most restrictions are removed by the surgeon after 1.5–3 months. Some bans are extended to six months. The surgeon monitors the patient’s condition and individually adjusts the recovery plan. Extreme, traumatic sports (boxing, wrestling, diving), and a physically overly active lifestyle will have to be eliminated forever. Patients should not engage in any potentially hazardous activities.

When rhinoplasty is performed using the classical method, the first thing doctors do is create a cast, which allows not only to maintain the resulting shape, but also to avoid disastrous consequences.

Let's figure out why plaster is needed after rhinoplasty and what rules to follow when using it.

RHINOPLASTY WITHOUT SURGERY

Plastic surgeon, Pavlov E.A.:

Hello, my name is Pavlov Evgeniy Anatolyevich, and I am a leading plastic surgeon at a famous Moscow clinic.

My medical experience is more than 15 years. Every year I perform hundreds of operations, for which people are willing to pay HUGE money. Unfortunately, many people do not even suspect that in 90% of cases surgery is not required! Modern medicine has long allowed us to correct most appearance flaws without the help of plastic surgery.

Plastic surgery carefully hides many non-surgical methods of appearance correction. I talked about one of them, check out this method

Many people are unhappy with the shape of their nose, and therefore go under the knife, no matter what. And until they wake up after anesthesia, they don’t even suspect how difficult the first week and a half after the operation will be. The first thing that awaits the patient:

• hematomas on the face;
• swelling;
• painful sensations.

And this is only a small part of what has to be endured. You have to sleep on your back so that your head is as high as possible. There are turundas in the nose that interfere with breathing, and the most corrected nose has plaster on it. This is what irritates many people. But, as it turned out, this is not just a way to fix the operated olfactory organ. This is also a method to avoid severe complications.

Plaster after rhinoplasty allows you to:

1. Maintain the shape that the surgeon gave the organ.
2. Avoid severe swelling.
3. Reduce the appearance of hematomas.
4. Helps reduce bleeding.
5. Protects against infections.

Such “decoration” must be endured not for the sake of the doctor’s whim, but for one’s own health. Plaster after rhinoplasty does not look very beautiful in the photo, but with its help you will speed up your functional recovery.

After what period is the plaster removed?

The question of when the cast is removed after rhinoplasty is relevant for everyone who has had or plans to have rhinoplasty. This is not surprising, because it causes inconvenience, does not allow you to return to work, fully walk outside, or engage in physical exercise.

When the plaster will be removed depends on the individual patient's indications

In most cases, before removing the plaster, the turundas are removed; this is done after 24 days have passed from the date of the operation. If any contraindications are found, the plaster may be removed only after 72 hours. Plaster is a more serious protection, so it is recommended to wear it for 8-10 days. But after removing such a device, swelling will still be observed, this phenomenon is considered normal.

Our readers write

Topic: Fixed my nose

From: Ekaterina S. (ekary*** [email protected])

To: Site Administration

Hello! My name is Ekaterina S., I want to express my gratitude to you and your site.

Finally, I was able to change the shape of my nose. Now I am very happy with my face and no longer have complexes.

And here is my story

From the age of 15, I began to notice that my nose was not what I would like, there was not a large hump and wide wings. By the age of 30, my nose had grown even more and became completely “potato”, I had a terrible complex about this and even wanted to have surgery, but the prices for this procedure are simply astronomical.

Everything changed when a friend gave me one to read. You can’t imagine how grateful I am to her for this. This article literally gave me a second life. After just a few months, my nose became almost perfect: the wings noticeably narrowed, the hump smoothed out, and the tip even rose slightly.

Now I don’t have any complexes about my appearance. And I’m not even shy about meeting new men, you know))

Is it possible to do without plaster?

Many surgeons recommend not to put a plaster on the nose, but to use a special medical splint to maintain its shape. This is a bandage that is durable and can protect even from severe damage. It is recommended to wear the splint for the same amount of time as the cast.

Although both the cast and the splint bring inconvenience and unpleasant sensations, they must be worn. This will allow you to achieve the maximum result from the operation.

The process of removing plaster after rhinoplasty

After the specified time has passed from the moment of the operation and the application of the plaster, they come to the plastic surgeon to remove the plaster.

After rhinoplasty, it is contraindicated to independently manipulate this medical attribute. There are many reasons for this. You can introduce an infection into the affected area and worsen your own health. But the most important thing: you can nullify all the results of the correction. And then you shouldn’t blame the doctor, because it was the patient who, through his actions, led to such an outcome.

When rhinoplasty is performed, removal of the cast is strictly contraindicated, even after a ten-day period, if the doctor decides to prolong walking in it. With the help of a medical attribute, you save deformed tissues from external influences and damage. Plaster is always combined with tampons, which are inserted into the nasal passages. All this will interfere with breathing and cause significant discomfort. You need to be patient and wait.

What should you not do while wearing a cast?

Many people do not understand that a doctor's advice must be taken seriously. This is due to the fact that you not only must maintain the resulting shape of the nose, but also your own health. The risk of complications is especially high during the rehabilitation period in the first two stages. The most important of them is wearing a cast for a week or more.

Stories from our readers

Fixed my nose shape at home! It's been half a year since I forgot what a hump of the nose is. Although it is generally accepted in society that appearance is not the most important thing for a man, I really didn’t like my nose. In addition, I also work in a field where appearance matters, I work as a wedding host.

Oh, how many consultations I attended - all the doctors quoted exorbitant prices and talked about long rehabilitation, but for me this is in no way suitable because weddings happen all the time, especially during the season. One day I had an appointment with Dr. E. A. Pavlov. He told me that in my case it was quite possible to do without surgery, it was enough to wear a special corrector every day. Here is an article in which he describes this method in detail. I obediently wore the concealer every day for several months and was amazed at the results, judge for yourself. In the end, I’m very glad that I was able to get by with “little blood”

If you have the same problems with finances or don’t want to go under the knife, then I recommend reading this article

In order not to introduce an infection into the operated area, not to injure already damaged tissues and not to spoil the work of the plastic surgeon, we recommend adhering to the following “don’ts”.

Contraindicated when wearing a cast on the nose:

1. Taking a shower in general. You will have to wash your body and head separately so as not to wet the bandages and cause them to become deformed.
2. You will have to forget for a while about the pool, going to the sauna.
3. Heavy physical activity and sports are prohibited.
4. Prolonged sneezing is also contraindicated. Here you will have to learn how to do it through your mouth.
5. Sleep on your stomach or face down.
6. Remove, adjust or do anything else with the plaster yourself.

When rhinoplasty is done and the cast is removed, the doctor will then tell the patient how to behave during the rehabilitation period. It is likely that at first it will still be difficult to breathe. After removing the plaster, you will have to rinse your nasal passages daily with the utmost care. For about three more months, patients will see swelling and bruising in the mirror. But if you had not had a cast on from the very beginning, the symptoms would have been more pronounced, the swelling would have spread to the cheeks and neck to a significant extent. We recommend following your doctor's advice exactly so that the results obtained are worth the effort and patience.

Will it be possible to remove the cast without the help of a doctor?

Only those who do not want to spend money on the services of a specialist can remove the plaster themselves. But in this case, the plastic surgeon may refuse to be held responsible for the results obtained from the performed rhinoplasty if he suspects that such actions were carried out. You should not engage in “amateur activities” regarding turundas and seams.

Sometimes there are cases when the splint and plaster come off on their own. In such a situation, it is recommended not to panic, but to immediately contact a specialist. It is strictly forbidden to independently remove bandages that have been secured by a doctor.

Plaster is a kind of “shield” for a vulnerable respiratory organ that has recently been amenable to rhinoplasty. Such a device is needed to maintain bone and cartilage structures in the required position. Also, such a solution is necessary to protect the respiratory organ from accidental injury. It is recommended to adhere to the main rule - to exclude any possible risks.

To do this, you should observe the following:

1. Avoid using glasses with heavy frames.
2. Sleep exclusively on your back.
3. Try not to make sudden movements with your hands.
4. When driving a car, it is recommended to wear a seat belt.
5. Avoid sports, including going to gyms and fitness classes.
6. Also, you should not attend various rallies, concerts, and festivals during the first month after removing the cast.
7. Do not take public transport during rush hour.
8. For facial treatment, it is recommended to use only special tonics and micellar waters. Perform all procedures as carefully as possible.

Current information from the mouth of a plastic surgeon

In order for patients to understand in detail what the procedure for applying and removing plaster looks like, we suggest that you read the interview with the famous Moscow plastic surgeon Gaik Pavlovich Babayan:

What is the purpose of applying a plaster cast after nose surgery?

A plaster cast is necessary to fix bones and tissues, the adjustment of which was carried out during the manipulation process. Thanks to the plaster, the final result that the patient will receive after the operation is formed. This allows you to hold the bone and eliminates the possibility of displacement due to swelling. The plaster also additionally protects the area where the operation was performed from mechanical damage. If plaster is applied incorrectly or at the wrong time, there may be side effects - including the risk of completely losing the shape that was the desired result.

How is plaster applied?

First, the surgeon prepares pieces of the required size using a special bandage with plaster. Adds water to the fabric and hardens the dressing. This type of protective device can consist of 5 levels, each of which plays an important role - it provides an antiseptic effect, protects against injury and various types of damage.

In 95% of cases, plaster is applied for 7-14 days. After this you can safely remove it. Sometimes you have to change the plaster. This happens extremely rarely, but still occurs due to the patient’s fault. This can happen due to intentional or accidental deformation of the bandage, its loosening, or removal. Also, the plaster cast must be changed if it gets wet during the bath procedures.

Is there any pain during plaster removal and what does the procedure look like?

The procedure for removing the plaster cast is not pleasant, but there is no painful sensation as such, rather just discomfort. The entire procedure will take a professional surgeon 6-10 minutes. The patient sits on the couch, and the doctor takes the necessary instruments and performs the required manipulations. It is very important that the movements are careful and that the bandage comes off as a single layer.

Will there be swelling after removal?

There is no swelling immediately after surgery because it is contained by the bandage. After the fixation is removed, the swelling intensifies. This phenomenon is considered normal and will pass after a certain time.

What to do with the itching that occurs under the bandage?

Itching is a normal consequence of wearing a cast. You'll have to wait a few days. It is strictly forbidden to scratch your nose with various improvised objects, such as a toothpick or tweezers. When performing such manipulations, you can break the bandage and make its fit less tight. This will lead to improper fusion of cartilage and bone structures.

I usually talk about all the recommendations during the consultation. The only thing I would like to emphasize is to try not to drip water onto the bandage. Of course, this is difficult, but if you do not let the plaster come into contact with water, you will be able to achieve the desired result faster, and you will not have to re-apply the bandage.

Rhinoplasty is performed to eliminate congenital defects or the consequences of any injury. The main task of a specialist performing rhinoplasty is to change the shape of the nose so that it is harmoniously combined with individual facial features. The doctor must foresee exactly what the organ will look like after the intervention, and how this will affect the person’s appearance. The functional characteristics of the nose must also be taken into account, since it is an organ of breathing and smell.

After rhinoplasty, patients will have to go through a rather difficult recovery period, which involves a number of restrictions and is particularly long. I have learned from my own experience that for some people, following the rules during rehabilitation is not an easy task because they lack patience. Violation of medical recommendations leads to side effects of varying complexity. In extreme cases, a person may require repeated specialist intervention. I hasten to reassure you: patients do not experience pain after surgery. As for appearance, burgundy bruises under the eyes and puffiness appear. This is a natural reaction of the body. All of these “normal” side effects disappear within a few days.

One of the peculiarities of rhinoplasty is that you cannot give a 100% guarantee regarding how the tissue will change during recovery. That is why it is necessary to completely ensure the immobility of the bone structures, cartilage and soft tissues of the nose. This effect can be achieved with the help of special retainers that will protect the nose from impacts, as well as by applying a plaster cast. The second option is most often used. Tampons are inserted into the nasal passages to stop the bleeding, and a plaster splint is placed on the nose. It may cause discomfort, but at the same time it performs many useful functions, namely:

• allows you to fix the correct proportions of the nose and its final shape;
• reduces displacement of cartilage and bone plates to a minimum;
• protects the nose from impacts and other external influences;
• suppresses the development of infection in the presence of an antiseptic under the plaster bandage.

The cast must be worn around the clock for ten days from the date of surgery. After removing it, I prescribe solutions for rinsing the nose and drops to my patients, which promote speedy healing. I remove the sutures after about a week, and I recommend topical medications to resolve hematomas and relieve swelling. In 2.5-3 months, the nose acquires the required shape (except for the tip and nostrils). However, for complete recovery the body requires a year or more, depending on the individual characteristics of the person. After this period, you can already judge how successful the rhinoplasty was.

Reshaping the nose is one of the most frequently performed plastic surgeries. The success of the result largely depends on the recovery period. And rehabilitation after rhinoplasty includes many prohibitions and mandatory conditions.

Read in this article

Stages of recovery and their features

Rhinoplasty is a serious operation. Therefore, healing is quite slow. And before the final result appears, your appearance and well-being will change more than once.

First days

Immediately after the patient comes to his senses from anesthesia, he feels weakness, drowsiness, and nausea. All this is a consequence of the influence of anesthetics. As they are removed from the body, the symptoms will disappear.

Immediately upon completion of the operation, turundas are placed in both nostrils, and a plaster or plastic pad is fixed on the nose. So we won't be able to see what it looks like yet.

The face has a frightening appearance due to. It is especially noticeable in the eyelid area, making the eyes appear swollen. Bruises are visible underneath. The cheeks may also become swollen. But after 5 - 7 days, the volume of fluid in the tissues will decrease, and the face will take on a more familiar appearance.

The day-by-day rehabilitation after rhinoplasty looks like this:

• the first couple of days may cause pain, so appropriate medications are prescribed;

• While the risk of infection remains, a course of antibiotics is usually recommended;

• in the intranasal passages, hemostatic turundas are installed for several days to support the new shape of the organ, which also absorb secretions;

• Until the tampons are removed from the nostrils, it is difficult to breathe through the nose, so you have to do it with your mouth;

• in the intervals between replacing turundas, the mucous membrane is treated with medications prescribed by the doctor to promote healing;

• You should lie down more for a week, an acceptable position for resting and sleeping is on your back;
• after 10 - 14 days, the stitches are removed, the plaster or plastic pad is removed.

In general, the features of the recovery period depend on the volume of intervention. With an extensive operation, there is more damage, so the discomfort is greater. Rehabilitation after rhinoplasty of the tip of the nose will go faster. For example, the plaster will be removed in a week; swelling in this case is not so pronounced. And septoplasty is associated with less discomfort, requirements and prohibitions than correction of the back of the organ.

However, after a month you don’t have to hide from prying eyes, since your face looks quite presentable. But the size of the nose will still decrease, and the shape will improve. And if something about it doesn’t suit you, you don’t need to tune in to a new correction.

Ultimate rehabilitation

The final period of rehabilitation after rhinoplasty starts from the 3rd month. By this time the swelling should have gone down. And the nose takes on the shape and size newly created by the doctor. If the operation is performed well, all the imperfections that were annoying before will disappear. And, conversely, errors made during the intervention become noticeable. At this stage, we can say whether rhinoplasty was a success, or whether it is worth thinking about a new correction of defects.

How long does recovery take?

The length of the rehabilitation period varies.

Taking all the circumstances into account, the nose can take its final appearance 4-6 months or a year after the intervention. During this time, you should adhere to the conditions of the recovery period.

Removing stitches after rhinoplasty

If the rhinoplasty went without complications, and the recovery period proceeds in accordance with the norms, then the sutures will be removed 15 days after the operation. We are talking about superficial/external sutures, because doctors apply them to the mucous surface using self-absorbable threads.

During recovery, the seams can be treated with ointments containing antibacterial drugs, but this is not a mandatory manipulation.

Even after the stitches are removed, the nose does not immediately take its final shape - swelling still persists for several weeks.

How long does rhinoplasty take?

The operation itself does not last long - a maximum of 3 hours (depending on the complexity of the corrections), but rehabilitation after rhinoplasty of the nose can last for several months. And even after external restoration, it is possible to evaluate the results of the surgeon’s work only after 12 months.

Splints in the nose after rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty, splints, which can be made of silicone, are inserted into the nose. They fix the nasal septum, serve as a hemostatic device and allow you to maintain the formed contour of the nose even with accidental mechanical impact on it.

Inside each splint there is a thin tube that allows the patient to breathe through the nose. These inserts remain in the nasal passages for a minimum of 48 hours postoperatively. If the intervention was accompanied by complications, the period can be extended to 4 days.

Self-removal of splints from the nose is strictly prohibited, as this can lead to a deviated nasal septum and bleeding.

Plaster after rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty, a plaster cast is applied to the nose - a bandage that is designed to maintain the desired position of all bones and cartilage. It is worn for 2 weeks, then removed for the day, and put on again in the evening - this way it is possible to prevent damage to the organ during sleep. Additionally, this device speeds up the process of swelling disappearance.

You cannot lift the plaster cast yourself, remove it and put it back in place. You need to take water procedures in such a way that water does not get on the plaster - it will get wet, change shape and will not perform its functions.

What to apply to your nose after rhinoplasty

If the doctor has not given any instructions regarding the use of medications after rhinoplasty, then there is no need to smear your nose with anything. It is recommended to rinse with saline solution, but use drugs from the pharmacy for this - for example, Aquamaris. This way, it will be possible to avoid the introduction of an infectious agent to the mucous membrane of the nasal passages.

You can smear your nose along the seams with Contractubex, ointment with badyagi, or any decongestant creams. But you cannot choose such medications on your own; they are prescribed by a doctor.

Watch this video about the features of rehabilitation after rhinoplasty:

How to apply a patch after rhinoplasty

The patch is worn after rhinoplasty for 2 weeks, then the process can be extended; in some cases, wearing such a bandage for 3 months is recommended to preserve/consolidate the results. Algorithm for the process of gluing the patch:

1. Wipe the skin of your nose with alcohol-containing lotion - this will remove the sebaceous film.
2. Cut off a small piece of adhesive tape (it should not be wide - maximum 1 cm) and stick it on the back of the nose.
3. The second fragment is applied in such a way that the tip of the nose is involved, and the edges of the patch are attached to the previous fragment and seem to pull the tip up.
4. The third strip of plaster is applied to the back of the nose so that it half covers the first strip and fixes the “tails” of the second fragment.

Prohibitions during rehabilitation

Healing will proceed without problems, and the shape of the nose will line up as intended, if you protect it from negative influences. There are several factors that can cause harm that should be excluded for now:

• Large amounts of salt and alcohol. Because of them, pain and swelling can linger for a long time.
• Sport. Playing activities, bending over, and running create a risk of mechanical damage to the nose. Its tissues are very fragile after surgery, so there is a risk of injury and sutures coming apart. For the same reason, you should not lift weights. Physical activity also increases blood circulation, which is why swelling lasts longer.
• Overheat. High temperatures interfere with the normal fusion of bones, cartilage and skin, creating conditions for infection. Therefore, a bath, visiting a solarium and staying in the open sun should be postponed for at least 3 months. Instead of a hot bath, use a warm shower. Food should also be at a comfortable temperature.

• Cold. It causes vasospasm, which does not promote tissue regeneration. How rehabilitation goes after rhinoplasty also depends on the general condition of the body, so catching a cold is also undesirable.
• Open water or pool swimming. This should be avoided due to the risk of infection for at least 2 months.
• Wearing glasses. Even lightly framed plastic can deform a new nose. The swelling due to the pressure of the glasses on the bridge of the nose will also increase.
• Cosmetics. It cannot be used for at least 2 weeks. Washing is also prohibited. Now the most expensive cosmetics and water are sources of infection.
• Pose lying on your side or stomach. In both cases there is a danger of injuring the nose.

You should also not touch it without reason, much less rip off the crusts that have formed inside on the mucous membrane. This may cause additional damage and bleeding.

What not to do after rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty you cannot:

• have sex during the first 2-3 weeks of the recovery period;
• take a hot bath or contrast shower;
• wet the bandage applied by the doctor to the nose;
• play sports and stress the physical body for 2-3 months;
• wear corrective glasses - the frames, even the lightest, put pressure on the nose, you should give preference to contact lenses;
• press, knead, massage the nose;
• sunbathe and visit the solarium during the first 3 weeks of the recovery period;
• make sudden head movements for 3 days after surgery.

Some restrictions are lifelong: for example, if a person is a professional boxer and has undergone rhinoplasty, then it is highly undesirable to return to this sport in the future - the results obtained will be destroyed, and repeated surgery may be required.

Watch this video about how long it will take to recover after rhinoplasty:

How to help yourself recover

The rehabilitation period after rhinoplasty will be shortened if you help the healing of injured tissues:

• Follow a salt-free diet, including more vegetables and fruits and proteins in your diet. And carbohydrates and fats should be reduced.
• Use Traumeel S and Lyoton gels after asking your doctor’s permission. They will help get rid of bruises faster.
• Before going to bed, place pillows on the sides of your body. They will not allow you to roll over on your side or stomach.

Why does the nose crook to the side after rhinoplasty?

If after rhinoplasty the nose crooks to the side, then the reasons for this may be the following:

• uneven correction - during the operation the surgeon performs resection of bone and cartilage tissue, and if it was performed asymmetrically, then curvature of the nose to the side is guaranteed;
• placement of grafts is uneven - the defect will be visible only after the patient has fully recovered;
• implant extrusion – the inserted material shifts and “pulls” the entire nose with it.

In addition to the surgeon’s mistakes, patients themselves can provoke a crooked nose by not following the rules of the rehabilitation period. The most common violations that occur are:

• removing tampons from the nasal passages on your own;
• wearing corrective glasses immediately after surgery;
• sneezing with your mouth closed, blowing your nose;
• Violation of the regime – sports activities are carried out, the person continues to smoke and drink alcoholic beverages without waiting for the end of rehabilitation.

Separately, doctors consider the temporary effect of curvature of the nose to the side - after rhinoplasty this is considered a normal, habitual side effect that disappears on its own by the end of the recovery period. That is why surgeons do not recommend assessing changes in appearance before the due date.

Bruises after rhinoplasty

Bruising after rhinoplasty is an inevitable side effect that disappears on its own and in most cases does not require medical intervention. They appear 2-3 days after surgery, quickly spread to the area around the eyes, the bridge of the nose and cover part of the forehead, but after 4-5 days they disappear without a trace.

To speed up the process of getting rid of bruises, you should follow your doctor’s recommendations:

• apply cold or ice compresses to problem areas for 10 minutes every 2-3 hours;
• do not take medications that contain aspirin or other blood thinners;
• You should not sleep on your back in the first week after surgery - your head should always be slightly elevated in relation to your body.

Any decongestant ointments, wound healing and folk remedies against bruises can only be used with the permission of a doctor.

Different nostrils after rhinoplasty: is this normal?

Most often, different nostrils in shape and size after rhinoplasty are a normal phenomenon that disappears after complete recovery (after 1-1.5 months). You should not evaluate your appearance immediately after surgery and the visual convergence of edema - the fluid may be deep in the tissue cells, and it will serve as a deforming factor.

But sometimes different nostrils are the result of a surgeon’s error, which occurs if:

• an asymmetrical resection of the nasal wings was performed;
• incorrectly placed implants;
• displacement of the endoprosthesis in the tissues;
• improperly performed cartilage transplantation.

If the difference in the size and shape of the nostrils is clearly visible at the initial stage of recovery, then you should seek help from the operating doctor. He can place a tampon in a too narrowed nostril, which will make it possible to correct the situation without additional surgical intervention. A difficult situation can be corrected by revision rhinoplasty, which is performed no earlier than 6 months after the initial operation.

Smell in the nose after rhinoplasty

An unpleasant smell in the nose is a natural phenomenon after rhinoplasty; it can persist only in the first days after surgery or bother the patient for 12 months.

But if such a side effect is accompanied by an increase in body temperature, yellow or green discharge from the nasal passages, pain and discomfort, then you should immediately seek qualified medical help. Most likely, an inflammatory process develops in the sinuses, which can lead to the formation of purulent contents.

Doctors consider an unpleasant odor in the nose after rhinoplasty as a normal symptom, do not take any action and only carry out diagnostics for the timely detection of inflammatory and infectious processes.

Numbness of the nose after rhinoplasty

Loss of sensitivity and numbness of the nose after rhinoplasty is a temporary phenomenon that completely disappears after 2-3 weeks. But for some people, the process of restoring sensitivity takes much longer; it can be felt for another 3-4 months after complete rehabilitation.

The specified period is considered the maximum, so if the unpleasant symptom persists, you should seek help from specialists - the nerve endings may have been damaged, which can be corrected.

Crusts in the nose after rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty, crusts may form in the nose, which is not a pathology; most often this process stops immediately after the stitches are removed (on the 10-15th day of the recovery period). Under no circumstances should you “forcibly” remove the crusts, because this provokes:

• bleeding due to injury to the mucous membrane;
• introduction of infection into the resulting wound;
• the formation of additional crusts during the wound healing process.

Doctors allow you to soften crusts in the nose with peach or almond oil, which are instilled into the nostril 1-2 drops several times a day. Soaked crusts can be freely removed with turundas, tourniquets or soft cotton swabs.

Nose can't breathe after rhinoplasty

If after rhinoplasty the nose does not breathe, then in the first few days this is considered normal. The second stage of rehabilitation, when you need to pay attention to nasal breathing, is 10-15 days. During this period, the plaster cast is removed, and breathing becomes freer, but may still remain difficult due to persistent swelling.

In general, doctors say that problems with nasal breathing after rhinoplasty can persist for up to 3 months. You can alleviate the condition with vasoconstrictor nasal drops, but they are used for no longer than 5 days in a row, because subsequent addiction occurs, and the body simply does not respond to such medications.

Runny nose after rhinoplasty

A runny nose after rhinoplasty is not normal and is extremely undesirable, because in this case, rehabilitation and recovery will take several months. As a runny nose, patients often experience active secretion of mucus, which is not a pathology and does not require the use of medications.

If a runny nose is a consequence of a cold, then the doctor should prescribe appropriate treatment. The best option would be to rinse with a saline solution and use vasoconstrictor drops to ease breathing. Under no circumstances should you blow your nose; you should avoid sneezing - these actions can cause sutures to rupture, implants to dislodge, and the tip of the nose to become distorted.

Scarring after rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty, the risk of scarring at the surgical incision sites is especially
high in people with thick and dark skin. Scars form in any case, but they can be of different types:

• normotrophic - they are distinguished by a light shade and thinness, almost invisible to others;
• keloid - the scar is constantly growing, itchy, its surface is pink or red, but after rhinoplasty such formations occur extremely rarely;
• internal - form in the nasal passages, can cause difficulty breathing, and decrease on their own over time.

Prevention of scar formation after rhinoplasty is strict adherence to the rules of the recovery period.

When does the tip of the nose droop after rhinoplasty?

If the tip of the nose after rhinoplasty is in an upturned state, then we can say with confidence that it will drop no earlier than in 2-3 weeks. But sometimes surgery on the nose leads to the fact that its tip remains in a drooping state forever, and this is already a sign of unsuccessful work by the surgeon. You will not be able to solve the problem on your own; you will need to go to the clinic for revision rhinoplasty to correct the aesthetic defect.

The position of the nasal tip should be assessed no earlier than 12 months after surgery.

Swollen tip of the nose after rhinoplasty

A swollen tip of the nose after rhinoplasty, even if it was performed on the bridge of the nose, is considered a normal side effect. Swelling may be:

• primary – occurs during the operation;
• secondary – visible to the patient and others after removal of the plaster cast, can persist for 30-45 days;
• residual - located only at the tip of the nose, is a small bulge, not noticeable to others.

Complete recovery and disappearance of edema occurs only 12 months after surgery.

Watch this video on how to remove swelling after rhinoplasty:

After rhinoplasty, a hump appeared on the bridge of the nose

The formation of a hump on the bridge of the nose after rhinoplasty occurs after a few months, and this may mean the following:

• the connective tissue has grown too much at the site of the incision and the surgeon’s work;
• the patient did not follow the rules of rehabilitation and started massage too early;
• the demand to stop wearing glasses was ignored.

The problem can only be solved by revision rhinoplasty, which is performed only 12 months after the previous one.

Headache after rhinoplasty

Headache after rhinoplasty is a normal side effect and may persist for up to 3 months. The pain will be periodic and not intense, due to the fact that during work the surgeon literally breaks the nasal septum and moves the cartilage. Such intervention leads to damage to the nerve endings, which provokes pain in the head.

Sometimes this side effect means fluctuations in blood pressure, so you will need to monitor these indicators.

Solarium after rhinoplasty: when is it possible?

You can visit the solarium after rhinoplasty after 6 months. Ultraviolet
rays can provoke the formation of pigment spots on the nose, because scars are not exposed to them.

In addition, a solarium is a thermal procedure that can increase blood flow, raise blood pressure, and provide a rush of blood to the nose. And this is a direct violation of the rehabilitation period.

For the same reasons, you should not sunbathe, and before going outside, be sure to apply sunscreen cream to your nose.

How long can you wear glasses after rhinoplasty?

After rhinoplasty, doctors do not allow you to wear glasses for 2-3 weeks - during this period the stitches will be removed and basic recovery will take place. This limitation is associated with guaranteed pressure on the nose. And even if it is not the bridge of the nose that has undergone surgery, but, for example, the wings or nostrils, then the glasses will put pressure on top, which can cause skin displacement and curvature of the tip of the nose.

If glasses are necessary for vision correction, they are replaced with contact lenses during the rehabilitation period. They are allowed to be worn immediately after rhinoplasty.

Physiotherapy after rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty, to speed up the rehabilitation process and prevent the development of unwanted complications, Doctors can prescribe a course of physiotherapy:

• . Used to quickly relieve swelling, treat hematomas/bruises, and improve skin nutrition after surgery. It involves a combination of medications and ultrasonic waves; one session lasts no more than 10 minutes and is painless. The full course is variable, depending on the patient’s condition. Procedures are carried out daily.
• . Restore sensitivity and improve blood circulation. Prescribed on the 10-14th day of the recovery period after complete removal of the plaster cast. Helps relieve swelling that has spread to the lower part of the face. The full course consists of 5 procedures, which are carried out with a break of 2 days.
on the 15th day after rhinoplasty, which restores soft tissues, accelerates their regeneration and prevents the formation of scars. Nose massage

Massage should be performed 2-3 times a day for a month. It helps restore and strengthen the tone of the skin, which prevents sagging.

Sometimes doctors prescribe hardware or manual lymphatic drainage, which helps get rid of deep edema affecting the periosteum. But such procedures should only be performed by specialists.

How long after rhinoplasty can you play sports?

Doctors ban sports after rhinoplasty for at least 60 days; it is advisable to maintain a period of 3 months. The fact is that physical activity leads to a natural increase in blood pressure, increased/accelerated blood flow - a rush of blood to the face can provoke a change in the results of rhinoplasty and even lead to sutures coming apart.

If the surgical intervention was accompanied by complications, or they arose during the rehabilitation period, then the contraindication to sports is extended to six months.

Diet after rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty, you do not need to follow any strict diet with many restrictions; the digestive system continues to work as usual. But there are a number of recommendations from doctors that must be followed:




Doctors categorically do not advise eating salted, pickled, smoked foods, sausages and deli meats, fast foods, semi-finished products - these products contain a large amount of salt, which will retain fluid in the body. And this leads to an extension of the period of getting rid of edema after rhinoplasty.

Alcoholic beverages are prohibited for consumption during the 20-day recovery period.

Alcohol after rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty, alcohol consumption should be avoided for 2-3 weeks. This recommendation from doctors is due to the following factors:

• alcohol increases blood pressure and increases blood flow - an excess rush of blood to the nose can cause bleeding and bruising;
• drinks containing alcohol inhibit regeneration processes and metabolism - tissues will heal more slowly;
• Fluid retention occurs in the body, which lengthens the period of disappearance of edema.

Some medications that are prescribed by a doctor to speed up rehabilitation are incompatible with alcoholic beverages - such a combination can cause an acute allergic reaction or make the medications functionally useless.

Read more about surgery to reduce the size of the nose.

During recovery after rhinoplasty, it is important for the patient to be patient, calm and confident in the result, despite the unattractive reflection in the mirror. If you have surgery from a good doctor, the beauty and grace of your nose may be beyond your expectations. The main thing is not to spoil the effect with incorrect actions after it.

Useful video

For information about what advice a plastic surgeon gives to patients after rhinoplasty, watch this video: