What Happens after Rhinoplasty?
Because plastic surgery to alter the shape of the nose involves sculpting the bone and cartilage, the nose is very fragile for some time after the procedure. Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is crucial.
A nose splint and nasal supports will be put in place by the surgeon while the patient is anesthetized. These are necessary to maintain the new shape of the nose and to maintain stability of the septum, which is the structure between the nostrils. Some plastic surgeons may use an absorbent material that prohibits nasal breathing, but there are some nasal supports that provide the necessary protection and permit breathing through the nose. It may be necessary to stay in the hospital the first night following surgery. The splint and nasal supports are generally removed by the surgeon within a few days of the procedure. Pain and discomfort following the surgery are usually relieved with oral medications.
Physical exertion and excessive activity will have to be avoided for four to six weeks. Avoiding any kind of contact sport will be necessary for three to six months. Although there are limitations to the kinds of activities the patient can participate in, the actual down time is minimal.
Swelling and bruising are common. It may take several months for the swelling to completely subside. It could take up to a year for the final outcome of the surgery to become apparent. Rhinoplasty involves manipulation of the cartilage, which can continue to undergo changes and could move some of the surrounding tissue during this process. It is important to have realistic expectations. Plastic surgery is as much an art as it is a science, and there is no guarantee that the desired results can be accomplished through a single procedure. It may be necessary to undergo a subsequent revision rhinoplasty in order to achieve optimum results.
Tags: Happens, Rhinoplasty