A rhinoplasty can be transformative, bringing more balance and proportion to your facial features while restoring healthy breathing function. While a talented rhinoplasty surgeon like Dr. Schmidt can create stunning results for you, you also have a role to play in your surgical outcome by diligently following all your post-operative care instructions. Here’s a detailed rhinoplasty recovery timeline to help you understand what to expect.
Days 1 to 3
Rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home once you wake up from the anesthesia. However, you will be too groggy to drive, so please arrange for a responsible adult to take you home and ensure you are resting comfortably.
The first 72 hours after nose surgery are the most critical part of your healing process. During this early phase, listen to your body and rest when you feel tired. You can use ice packs to manage swelling and bruising and take the pain medication prescribed by Dr. Schmidt to make you feel more comfortable.
Sleeping on your back with your head elevated can help reduce swelling and relieve any congestion you might experience in the days immediately following rhinoplasty surgery. Use pillows to prop up your head and ensure you don’t accidentally roll over onto your side or stomach overnight.
Days 4 to 7
As your rhinoplasty recovery continues, you should feel well enough to resume some of your typical activities. While you’ll still need to avoid strenuous exercise, light walks can help speed your healing process by improving your circulation. You’ll need to return to our office one week after your surgery for a follow-up appointment, where Dr. Schmidt will remove your dressings and evaluate your progress.
Weeks 2 to 4
Though everybody heals from plastic surgery at different rates, you will likely have progressed far enough in your recovery process to return to work and social activities by the two- to three-week mark. However, if you typically have a challenging, strenuous workout regimen, please wait to resume exercising until Dr. Schmidt has cleared you to do so. You may need to take it easy for a little bit longer, depending on how well you are progressing.
Week 5 and Beyond
Your nose’s appearance and breathing function should gradually continue improving for up to a year after surgery, though these changes will be less dramatic as time goes by. If you wear glasses, you may need to switch to contact lenses for a few months to avoid putting too much pressure on your nose.
Schedule Your Denver Rhinoplasty Consultation
At Schmidt Facial Plastic Surgery, we understand that changing any aspect of your appearance is a significant commitment. That’s why we offer innovative 3D imaging and simulation during your consultation to let you envision the potential outcomes you can expect with Dr. Schmidt’s recommendations. As a surgeon who has attained double board certification in plastic surgery and otolaryngology, Dr. Schmidt is one of the best rhinoplasty providers in Denver. Contact us today to learn more and start your journey to a more attractive, confident you!
