Lake Norman Oral & Facial Surgery • Dr. Raymond J. Haigney II • 9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 • (704) 987-3132
9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 • (704) 987-3132
Nose Job Recovery
Prior to getting a nose job in huntersville nc, it is important to schedule an appointment with your surgeon to discuss the procedure, expectations and risks. When meeting with the surgeon, it is helpful to review your goals and discuss what you wish to change about your nose. The surgeon will also review your health history to determine if you are a good candidate for rhinoplasty.
It is important to understand that a perfect nose does not truly exist. Through surgery, however, doctors are able to enhance facial features and ensure your nose is symmetrical in comparison to the rest of your face.
The surgeon will also evaluate the structures of your nose in addition to your other facial features. Through this evaluation, the surgeon can determine if your expectations for surgery are realistic. The surgeon will also consider your overall health. The doctor will also discuss the risks, recovery time, limitations after surgery and the cost for the procedure.
There are a variety of techniques used to change the shape of your nose. Once the surgeon determines you are a good candidate, your surgeon will create a plan for surgery.
If you have health insurance, be sure to talk to your provider in advance in order to determine what is covered and what you will be responsible for. Health insurance doesn’t typically cover procedures which are cosmetic in nature.
Nose Job Recovery
Following a nose job, the surgeon will typically place a nasal splint which will be in place for the first week. You can expect to have some swelling and bruising around the eyes. This typically starts to improve a few days after surgery, however can last up to two weeks.
You can expect your nose to have some swelling. It is likely that only you and your surgeon will notice the swelling. It can take up to six months for the swelling to completely subside. The final result and shape of your nose will be apparent once it is healed.
It is important to avoid strenuous activity for three to six weeks following the surgery. You can return to your routine social activities in two to three weeks following surgery without any obvious signs that the procedure was ever done.
Minor bleeding and mucus or blood drainage are common for a few days after the surgery. This can also occur after you remove the dressing. Your doctor may also place a "drip pad" under your nose. This is a small piece of gauze which helps to absorb drainage. Your doctor will advise on the process and frequency for changing the gauze. Avoid placing the drip pad tightly against your nose.
To further reduce your risk of bleeding and swelling, your doctor may encourage you to follow addition precautions for several weeks after surgery. These additional precautions may include the following:
- Avoid strenuous activities like aerobics and jogging
- Take baths instead of showers to avoid getting your nose wet
- Do not blow your nose. Gently wipe it as needed
- Eat foods which are high in fiber to avoid constipation
- Avoid extreme facial expressions
- Gently brush your teeth to limit the movement of your upper lip
- Wear clothes that fasten in the front and don’t need to be pulled over your head.
It’s also important to avoid resting eyeglasses or sunglasses on your nose for at least four weeks following the surgery. This helps to prevent putting unnecessary pressure on your nose.
Use SPF 30 sunscreen when you are outside. This is especially important on your nose. Excessive sun exposure can cause permanent discoloration on your nose.
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