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How Do I Prepare for Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Are you getting ready for a rhinoplasty? This surgery can be highly rewarding and not just aesthetically. Many patients originally choose to undergo rhinoplasty for medical reasons, like a deviated septum, valve collapse or large turbinates. All these conditions cause nasal breathing difficulty or obstruction. The surgery both enhances their looks and helps them to breathe easier. This guide will help you prepare for your surgery. Please get in touch if you have any questions or concerns. We want our patients to enjoy their rhinoplasty journey, from the consultation through recovery and beyond.

Rhinoplasty Recovery Tips

One of the biggest preparations you can make for rhinoplasty surgery is to arrange your life so you can recover. Don’t expect to come in for surgery and to jump back into your regular routine the next day. Your body needs time to heal. Before surgery, make arrangements to clear your schedule so you can focus on recovery and nothing else.

Many patients are surprised by the ease of their rhinoplasty recovery. Yes, you will have some discomfort, but these effects generally fade quickly and get a little better each day. Dr. Sajjadian and his staff will check with you during your recovery and are available to answer any questions, address any concerns, and ensure that your healing is proceeding as it should. These tips will help you through the recovery process:

  • Take it Easy: Rest is one of the best things you can do for your body after rhinoplasty. Plan on taking it easy for several days. It typically takes 10-14 days for the majority of the swelling and bruising to fade, although you should be able to resume many activities well before this.
  • Keep Your Head Elevated: The first few days after surgery you’ll need to keep your head elevated at all times, including while you sleep. Find a comfortable chair and plenty of pillows before surgery and make this area your retreat after surgery. Apply cold compress around the eyes for the first three days. We also give supplements that promote quicker healing.
  • Avoid Exercise and Strenuous Activities: You’ll need to avoid exercise and strenuous activities for several weeks after surgery.
  • Find Support: To prepare for surgery, put together a team of people who are ready and willing to support you throughout the recovery process. You’ll need someone to bring you home after surgery (you won’t be able to drive) and someone to help you during the first hours after surgery. Having someone there to help with the little things like meal prep and remembering pain medication can make recovery much more enjoyable.

Other Preparations

Preparing for recovery is a big part of preparing for rhinoplasty, but perhaps the most important preparation you can do is choosing your surgeon wisely. Whether you’re undergoing rhinoplasty for cosmetic or medical reasons, the right surgeon can ensure the success of your procedure. Look for a surgeon who is highly skilled in performing rhinoplasty (especially important for non-Caucasian patients preparing to undergo ethnic rhinoplasty) and who has extensive training in the facial and nasal structure. Dr. Sajjadian is one only a few triple-board certified plastic surgeons and is considered an expert in both rhinoplasty and ethnic rhinoplasty.

Call us today and schedule your complimentary rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Sajjadian.