A Guide to Rhinoplasty Recovery

The decision to have a nose job procedure involves a lot of thought and planning. Rhinoplasty surgery is designed to alter how the nose looks, functions, or both. A rhinoplasty is a complex equation of surgical technique and a creative eye for detail to get excellent, natural-looking results. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 220,000 rhinoplasties are performed every year in the U.S. Men and women considering this type of procedure may have questions, including "What will happen during my recovery?" and "When will I see my results?"

When planning your rhinoplasty, at the top of the list is finding the right plastic surgeon for your procedure. Dr. Marisa Lawrence is one of the most experienced surgeons in Georgia. Founder of her own private practice, Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery, she provides outstanding surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic care to her patients in the greater Atlanta, GA, area. Dr. Lawrence is a double board-certified and fellowship-trained plastic surgeon who believes in listening to her patients’ needs and achieving their desired aesthetic goals.

If you are considering a nose job but want to know more about rhinoplasty recovery and results, here is an in-depth look at both.

Rhinoplasty surgery

Every person has their own unique nose. The ideal cosmetic outcome involves reshaping or contouring the nose to create balance and harmony with a person’s other facial features. In some cases, rhinoplasty surgery involves correcting breathing issues for a patient. This type of nose job works on the structural elements so areas that are restricted can be reworked, making breathing easier. Both therapeutic and cosmetic issues with the nose can be addressed in a single rhinoplasty procedure.

Nose reshaping surgical techniques

With any type of surgery, most patients are concerned about scarring. Incision placement is one of the key elements in rhinoplasty. Finding the right surgical care for your procedure with an experienced, qualified surgeon like Dr. Lawrence should be your first priority. Rhinoplasty surgery can be performed with a closed or open surgical technique. A closed technique is where incisions are made inside the nose and scars are hidden. In some cases, an open surgical technique is required, which involves external incisions that are necessary to get optimal results. This is commonly used to address severe breathing issues or cosmetic changes to the tip of the nose. During a thorough consultation, Dr. Lawrence will determine the proper surgical plan while keeping incision placement and scarring concerns at the forefront with every patient.

Rhinoplasty recovery and what to avoid

Recovery is key to a successful nose job. Every person experiences their own recovery when it comes to rhinoplasty surgery and patients move at their own pace through each stage. It is common to experience some pain or discomfort immediately after surgery, and swelling and bruising are common side effects, especially in the first week or two. In some instances, patients will need to wear a nose splint for a period of time during recovery. Here are some other guidelines to consider after rhinoplasty surgery:

• No strenuous exercise or activities until cleared by your surgeon
• Do not blow your nose
• Gently brush your upper teeth to limit pulling on your upper lip
• While wearing bandages, bathe in a tub rather than a shower
• Avoid certain facial expressions to reduce strain on surgical incisions
• Avoid clothing that you must pull over your head
• Don’t wear eyeglasses for at least a month

How to recover from rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is generally an outpatient surgery that allows patients to return home the same day. Patients should have a friend or family member drive them home after surgery and provide care for at least 24 – 48 hours. You can expect swelling, discomfort, and pressure during the first few days. Patients should have pain medication prescriptions filled and a recovery space ready prior to getting home. Other general guidelines for healing at home:

• Sleep with your head elevated
• Cold compresses or ice packs can reduce swelling
• Keep all bandages on until removed by your surgeon
• Take pain medication as directed

At your follow-up appointment, Dr. Lawrence will assess how you are healing and remove the splint. Patients should be able to return to work within a week, but swelling and bruising will take several weeks to fully dissipate. Patients typically see some immediate results, but the final results may take up to six months or longer.

Rhinoplasty revisions

Rhinoplasty revisions are not uncommon, but it is essential to find the right surgical care and experience. The nose is a complex, intricate facial feature. Revisions can be necessary for cosmetic touch-ups or to improve how the nose functions. Putting yourself in the right hands the second time around can make all the difference in your revision results.

Schedule your consultation today

If you are considering rhinoplasty surgery, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Marisa Lawrence. Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery in Atlanta, GA, welcomes you to explore their facility and meet their team so you can get started with your cosmetic journey.