Follow-up after Rhinoplasty
A brief summary of post-rhinoplasty recommendations given to patients is as follows:
• Prevent injury to your nose. Minimize all activities, and be very careful.
• Avoid blowing your nose. Wipe your nose gently with tissues. If you sneeze, try to keep your mouth open.
• Change the dressing (if you have one) under the nose as needed.
• Avoid extreme physical activity. Strive for more rest than usual, and avoid exertion.
• Brush your teeth gently with a soft toothbrush only.
• Avoid manipulating your upper lip, which helps keep your nose at rest.
• Avoid foods that require prolonged chewing. This is the only dietary restriction related to the rhinoplasty.
• Wear clothing that fastens in front or back for 1 week. Avoid slip over sweaters, tight tee shirts, and turtlenecks.
• Avoid smiling or excessive facial movements for 1-2 weeks.
• You may wash your face, but avoid getting the nasal cast wet.
• Do not wash your hair for 1 week, unless you have someone who can do it for you.
• Do not get your nasal dressing wet.
• Absolutely avoid tanning for 6 weeks after surgery.
• Do not wear regular glasses or sunglasses that rest on the bridge of the nose for at least 4 weeks. You may tape the glasses to your forehead.
• After the physician removes your nasal plaster cast, the skin of the nose may be cleansed gently with a mild soap or a hypoallergenic/mild skin lotion.