Whether undergoing rhinoplasty for cosmetic or respiratory reasons, the general procedure and recovery are nearly identical. The procedure is done in an outpatient surgical setting under general anesthesia. It is a relatively short procedure, but it is important to understand the recovery period after to have the best chance of getting the full benefit.
Once under anesthesia, your surgeon will make small incisions inside your nostrils to gain access to the bony structure of your nose. Once the bone and cartilage are reshaped, the skin is secured with small sutures. In most cases, the incisions needed are entirely in the nostril and are invisible after recovery.
You should be able to go home after the procedure and likely have a rigid splint over your nose to protect the delicate structures as they heal into their new position and shape. As the anesthesia begins to wear off, you will start to gain sensation around the surgical site. Most patients report the highest pain during this time, but it will subside.
Ice packs and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication can help. However, throughout the recovery time, especially during the few days right after the surgery, protecting your nose from impact or any unnecessary movement is important. You should refrain from blowing your nose for at least 2 weeks after the procedure.
In general, most people are able to return to their everyday life without restrictions, about a month after the surgery, with more open airways or the more refined and desired shape of the nose. If you do not have clear sinuses or want to improve the shape of your nose, call Cosmetique Cosmetic Surgery Center in Miami, FL, at 305-279-4700 or visit www.cosmetiqueplasticsurgery.com to schedule a rhinoplasty consultation.
