The postoperative period of a rhinoplasty is marked by the appearance of edema or swelling of the skin and soft tissues on the back and the tip of the nose.
This swelling masks the detail of the nasal remodeling performed during the rhinoplasty. For this reason, the result of a cosmetic rhinoplasty is usually evaluated 1 year after the operation.
How long does the swelling of the nose last after a rhinoplasty ?
It is important to keep in mind that the postoperative swelling is the most important thing in the first 2 weeks, It may persist and be present for several months, regressing little by little with time.
The »final » result of a nose job surgery is generally evaluated at 1 year.
The importance and duration of the edema depend on several factors. These include the thickness of the skin and the propensity of the patient to develop edema, the surgical technique which is used by the surgeon, but also the care and gestures made after the operation.
How to optimize diet before and after rhinoplasty ? The importance of nutrition in facial plastic surgery
A diet rich in proteins (soy, pumpkin seeds, red beans, eggs, white meat, etc.) and low in salt will help the healing process and reduce the amount of edema.
Food supplements can also be considered for a zinc, arginine, bromelain supplementation…
In addition, it is advisable to avoid spicy food which is a source of sinus irritation and can increase the swelling of the nose.
Why resuming walking early but without effort after nose job surgery ?
Although resuming sports can not be considered before 4 to 6 weeks (or even 3 months for contact sports), it is important to opt for a gentle walk without effort as soon as possible after the operation. Walking activates the blood circulation and promotes the drainage of fluids in the body. We can then observe a better evolution of the nasal edema.
Avoid taking anti-inflammatory drugs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, although effective in managing pain, lead to dilation of the blood capillaries which increases swelling and the risk of bleeding. Their use should be avoided after nose job surgery.
So, it is very important and necessary to follow all the recommendations and advice of your plastic surgeon for optimal results.
