Recovery Phase from a Rhinoplasty in Washington DC

If you have spent some time considering nasal surgery and decided to go forward, it is important to understand that this is not just a one-day commitment. As with all surgical procedures, there will be a recovery phase from a rhinoplasty in Washington DC. It is important to follow all instructions as closely as possible, to better aid the healing. Board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Somenek will prepare you beforehand and keep in communication with you afterward to ensure your recovery is smooth and effective.

What is the Rhinoplasty Recovery Like?

A rhinoplasty is more of a journey through recovery rather than an instant result. You will not see the final result of the procedure on the day that you go home. Many patients will experience swelling predominantly in the nasal tip and throughout the nose in the weeks and (potentially) months after their rhinoplasty.

During each visit in your follow up, Dr. Somenek will educate you about your progress and how best to expedite the reduction of swelling. It is completely normal not to fully appreciate the final shape of the nose in the first weeks, as it does take time to achieve a final result. Following all aftercare instructions and taking it easy are the keys to a quick and successful recovery phase after getting a rhinoplasty in Washington DC.

Monitoring Progress After the Procedure

At Somenek+Pittman MD, we take pride in our commitment to being available to you after your surgery. That includes follow-ups to gauge the healing process. If the nose is still swollen despite Dr. Somenek’s recommendations, he will see the patient more frequently in the office, with the possibility of performing steroid injections or nasal taping to help expedite the swelling resolution.

If you seem to be healing in a normal manner and the swelling is resolving in a typical fashion, we will space out the visits accordingly. No matter what questions you have, you can always call us to get clarification.

Movement and Activity Limitations

Even though you may not think that your physical activity affects your nose, it is important to limit extreme motion during the recovery phase of a rhinoplasty. For the first 10 days after the rhinoplasty, Dr. Somenek asks the patient to refrain from extreme physical activity and working out. They are also not allowed to get their nasal cast wet during their first week, so they will receive detailed instructions on how best to shower or bathe afterwards in order to avoid this.

Patients should not lift any objects heavier than a gallon of milk, which is usually around eight to ten pounds, to avoid any muscle strain. Doing so can increase the potential for a nosebleed after a rhinoplasty.

Most people are back to work after 10 to 14 days, and those who do not do high intensity interval training can resume their exercise routines. For those whose regimen is more intensive, it can take three to four weeks to fully return back. The most important thing for them to do is listen to their body and slow down if their nose begins to ache.

Learn More About the Recovery Phase After a DC Rhinoplasty

Patients will have to wait several weeks after surgery to start seeing the full results. In order to prevent complications, you must be disciplined during the recovery phase of a rhinoplasty in Washington DC. Let us know if you would like to set up a consultation.