Instructions After Rhinoplasty

Following rhinoplasty surgery, it is crucial to follow your surgeon’s instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and achieve the best results. These instructions will help minimise complications and enhance the healing process.

Immediate Post-Surgery Care

• Nasal Douching
  Douche the nose 6 times a day using the saline solution prescribed by your surgeon. This helps to clear the nasal congestion that is common after rhinoplasty. You will only be able to swish the saline up one nostril at a time until the splints are removed on day 7. Then you will be able to swing the saline from up one nostril and out the other nostril.
• Drixine Nose Spray
  In addition to nasal douching, Drixine nose spray can be used 2-3 times daily to further clear congestion and promote easier breathing.
• Managing Nasal Dribble
  Your nose may dribble blood occasionally for about three days. Gently dab the nose with a tissue (such as Kleenex) but avoid wiping or applying pressure. In hospital a cotton bandage was placed under the nose to catch any ooze. Avoid using this after day 1 as this can cause irritation like nappy rash.
• Sleeping Position and Dry Mouth
  You may sleep on one pillow at home but keep a bottle of water next to the bed as it is expected to wake up with a dry mouth due to mouth breathing.

Reducing Swelling and Bruising

• Ice Application
  Ice over the nose is only effective in the first 24 hours after surgery to reduce swelling. After this period, ice will have little impact on swelling.
• Daily Walking
  Walk for at least 60 minutes a day to help reduce swelling. It’s normal for some bruising to track down the cheeks as part of the recovery process.
• Bruising
  Bruising around the nose and eyes is common and may track down the face. This will typically fade within 10 to 14 days. Avoiding physical exertion can help minimise bruising in the first 2 weeks. Make-up can be worn to cover the bruising as soon as the plaster is removed on the 7^th day after surgery.

Pain Management

• Minimal Pain Relief Required
  Pain relief is rarely required after rhinoplasty. However, if needed, Panadol can be taken to alleviate discomfort. Avoid medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin because these medications may increase the risk of bleeding. Vitamin E and Fish Oil should be avoided because they also promote bleeding in the first 2 weeks after surgery. Eating fish is fine.

Post-Surgery Care

• Removal of the Stitches and Splints at the First Appointment
  Before your first post-op appointment, douche the nose and use Vaseline on a cotton bud to clean the stitches under the nose. This will ensure the area is clean and allow the splints to be removed without discomfort.

Additional Care Tips

• No Contact Sports
  Avoid any activities that could result in a bump or injury to your nose for at least 6 weeks. This is critical for protecting the healing nose and ensuring optimal results. Bones usually take 6 weeks to settle firmly into position.
• Gentle Nasal Care
  Avoid blowing your nose for at least 1 week.  If you need to sneeze, open your mouth to reduce pressure on your nose.