What Should Be Considered After Rhinoplasty Surgery?
What is Nose Aesthetics?
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct the shape and function of the nose. This aesthetic surgery is also known as rhinoplasty or rhinoplasty and aims to harmonise the structure of the nose with the facial features. Rhinoplasty can be applied to correct congenital deformities or to eliminate deformations caused by trauma. In addition, rhinoplasty also provides functional benefits by improving structural problems that make breathing difficult. Interventions in different areas such as the shape of the tip of the nose, the width of the nasal wings or the correction of the nasal bone help to achieve a more aesthetically balanced appearance.
How is Nose Aesthetics Performed?
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure usually performed for aesthetic and functional purposes. The surgery is performed to correct unwanted deformities in the nasal structure and to achieve a more aesthetic appearance. The operation is usually performed under general anaesthesia and changes can be made to the shape of the tip of the nose, nasal wings, bone structure and nostril size. Closed or open methods are usually used to avoid damaging the tissues inside the nose. In the closed method, incisions are made inside the nose, while in the open method, a small incision can be made at the tip of the nose. The postoperative healing process may take several weeks, but the results are permanent and adapt to the facial structure of the person.
What Should Be Considered After Rhinoplasty Surgery?
The healing process after rhinoplasty surgery is an important stage and there are some points to be considered in this process. Here are the things to be considered after rhinoplasty surgery:
- Pay Attention to Rest: Adequate rest is necessary for your body to recover after surgery. Avoid heavy activities for the first few days.
- Head should be kept high: It is important to keep your head elevated to reduce swelling. You can raise your head by using a few pillows while sleeping.
- Avoid Hot and Cold Compress Applications: Applying any hot or cold compress to the nasal area can increase swelling, so avoid such applications.
- Avoid Contact with the Nose: During the healing process after rhinoplasty, direct contact, blows or pressure on the nasal area may adversely affect healing.
- Avoid Swimming and Sauna: Immediately after surgery, environments such as swimming and sauna can increase the risk of infection in the nasal area.
- Avoid Alcohol Use: Consuming alcohol can negatively affect the healing process, so these habits should be avoided.
Should it be protected from cold weather and sun after rhinoplasty surgery?
After rhinoplasty surgery, it is very important to protect from cold air and sunlight in order for the healing process to proceed in a healthy way. Cold air may adversely affect the healing process by narrowing the vessels in the nose and may cause increased swelling. In addition, exposure to direct sunlight can increase the sensitivity of the skin after surgery, causing scars to become more prominent. Therefore, when spending time outdoors after rhinoplasty, it is recommended to wear a cap or hat to protect the nose, use sunscreen and avoid cold weather.
How should the lying position be after rhinoplasty surgery?
The lying position after rhinoplasty surgery is very important for the healing process to proceed properly. Generally, patients are recommended to lie on their backs for the first few days after surgery. The head should be kept higher than the body, ideally supported at an angle of 30-45 degrees. This position helps to reduce swelling and bruising in the nose. In addition, keeping the head elevated contributes to relaxed breathing and regular blood flow. Lying face down or on your side may adversely affect the healing process by pressing on the nasal area, so these positions should be avoided.
When is the bandage and splint removed after rhinoplasty surgery?
After rhinoplasty surgery, bandages and splints are usually used to support the healing process and ensure that the shape of the nose remains proper. After the surgery, the bandage and splint are usually kept on the nose for 7 to 10 days. This period may vary depending on the surgeon's recommendations and the patient's recovery rate. After the bandage and splint are removed, patients are advised to take care of their nose and protect it from external factors. Also, it may take several weeks for the shape of the nose to take its final form, so it is important to be patient.
How is Recovery After Rhinoplasty Surgery?
The healing process after rhinoplasty surgery may vary individually, but usually consists of several stages. There may be swelling and bruising in the first days, this is normal and usually subsides within 7-10 days. Intranasal tampons and splints may remain in place for several days and are an important part of the healing process. In the first few weeks after surgery, care should be taken to protect the nose and reduce swelling. Lying face down should be avoided and pressure should not be applied around the nose. Swelling may not completely disappear for several months, but the results are usually fully evident within 6 months to 1 year. Being patient and following the doctor's instructions will help speed up the healing process.
After rhinoplasty, the sense of smell usually returns to normal within a few weeks after surgery. However, there may be a temporary loss of smell due to swelling and the healing process inside the nose. This is usually temporary and you can speed up recovery by following your doctor's recommendations.
It is important to protect the nasal area from water when showering after surgery. Hot water vapor and direct water contact should be avoided in the first weeks. Since the nasal tape and plaster can get wet, you should be careful by tilting your head during showering.
Mild nosebleeds are considered normal in the first few days after rhinoplasty surgery. Bleeding is usually part of the healing process and decreases over time. However, if you experience intense or continuous bleeding, you should definitely consult your doctor.