Nose job aftercare: At home guide to recovery

Undergoing a rhinoplasty is a big decision, and the journey does not end once the surgery is over. In fact, what you do in the days and weeks following your procedure plays a big part in how well you heal and the outcome of your new look. With the right care and patience, you can support your body’s natural healing process and minimise discomfort, swelling, and potential complications.

This article will take you through everything you need to know about at-home recovery, from managing pain to sleeping better and everything in-between.

After surgery: what to expect

First, it is important to set realistic expectations. When you leave the surgical centre, you will likely have a nasal splint or cast on your nose, and in some cases, internal nasal packing as well. There may be some light bleeding, congestion, bruising around the eyes, and noticeable swelling, especially during the first few days. This is all part of the normal healing process.

Remember, your nose will not look like the finished result immediately after surgery. It may appear swollen, uneven, or even asymmetrical at first. This is temporary. The true shape of your nose will gradually emerge over the course of several months, and full results can take up to a year.

Pain management

Most people find that rhinoplasties are not extremely painful, but you may experience some discomfort, tenderness, and pressure, especially during the first week. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication to help manage this, or you might be instructed to take over-the-counter options such as paracetamol. It is best to avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin unless specifically approved by your doctor, as these can increase the risk of bleeding.

Cold compresses can also provide relief, especially during the first 48 hours. Just be sure to apply them to the cheeks rather than directly on the nose to avoid disrupting the healing process or affecting the nasal splint.

Swelling and bruising

Swelling is completely normal after your rhinoplasty and can vary from person to person. In the first few days, the area around your eyes and cheeks may look puffy, and you might notice some bruising as well. Most of the major swelling will go down within a few weeks, but minor residual swelling, especially at the tip of the nose, can persist for months.

To help reduce swelling, try to keep your head elevated as much as possible, particularly while sleeping. Cold compresses during the early days can also help minimise puffiness. Staying hydrated throughout the day helps your body flush out excess fluids and contributes to faster recovery. Additionally, keeping your sodium intake low can reduce water retention, which often contributes to swelling. Most importantly, be patient. Swelling is a gradual process, and it is completely normal for your nose to evolve over time.

Sleeping positions

How you sleep after your rhinoplasty is more important than you might think. For at least the first week, it is best to sleep on your back with your head elevated above your heart. This helps reduce swelling and protects your healing nose from accidental pressure.

Using two or three pillows, or a wedge pillow, can help you maintain the correct angle. If you are someone who naturally rolls onto your side during the night, placing rolled up towels or small pillows on either side of your body can act as a gentle barrier and keep you in place.

Cleansing and hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene is essential for a smooth recovery, but you will need to be gentle around your nose. You should avoid touching or attempting to adjust the nasal splint, even if it starts to feel loose toward the end of the first week. If there is dried blood or mucus around the nostrils, you can gently clean the area using a cotton swab dampened with saline or water, taking care not to disturb the internal stitches or incisions.

Your surgeon may also prescribe a saline nasal spray to keep the inside of your nose moist or an antibiotic ointment for specific areas. Use these exactly as directed. Avoid blowing your nose, especially in the first week, as this can cause pressure that disrupts healing. If you feel the urge to sneeze, try to do so through your mouth to reduce impact on the nasal tissues.

What to eat and drink during recovery

Your body heals best when it is well-nourished, so eating a balanced and supportive diet can make a real difference. In the early days, you may not feel up to eating much, which is perfectly normal. Start with soft, easy-to-digest foods like smoothies, soups, yoghurt, and oatmeal.

Once your appetite returns, try to incorporate foods rich in protein, which help repair tissue, and vitamin C, which supports healing and reduces inflammation. Leafy greens, citrus fruits, and berries are excellent sources of antioxidants. Zinc, found in nuts, and seeds also supports immune function. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day is equally important. Try to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and salty foods during the early recovery period, as they can contribute to dehydration and swelling.

 

Activity and movement

You will want to take it easy for a while after surgery. While light walking is encouraged to keep circulation moving, avoid any strenuous exercise or activities that increase your heart rate or blood pressure for at least three to four weeks, or as advised by your surgeon. Heavy lifting, running, and bending over can all increase swelling or risk bleeding.

You should also steer clear of hot showers, saunas, or steam rooms in the early stages, as heat can worsen swelling. If you wear glasses or sunglasses, avoid resting them on the bridge of your nose while it is still healing. Your surgeon may recommend taping them to your forehead or switching to contact lenses temporarily. Sun exposure should also be avoided, as healing skin is more susceptible to sunburn and hyperpigmentation.

When to contact your surgeon

While most recoveries are straightforward, it is important to stay alert to signs of possible complications. Contact your surgeon if you experience a sudden increase in swelling or pain, heavy or persistent bleeding, fever above 38°C, or any foul-smelling discharge. Redness, warmth, or increasing tenderness around the incision sites could indicate infection and should be checked promptly.

If you are looking to undergo rhinoplasty surgery or would like more information, Mr. Raj Lakhani at Rhinoplasty LDN is a leading specialist in London. With advanced specialised training and a strong background in evidence-based care, Mr. Lakhani is dedicated to delivering exceptional results. To book a consultation, visit the Rhinoplasty LDN contact page and take the first step toward expert care.