Discharge Instructions for Rhinoplasty
You had a surgical procedure called rhinoplasty, which changes the structure and shape of the nose. Here’s what you need to know following this procedure.
What to Expect
-
Bleeding may occur after surgery. It should subside in about
4-7 days. -
Swelling may occur around your outer nose. It should subside over the next
1-2 weeks. -
Expect your nose to be blocked during the first week after surgery. This is caused by blood, mucus, and swelling inside the nose.
Nose Care
-
Avoid blowing your nose for
1 week(s). -
Do not insert any objects, such as cotton swabs, in your nose, not even for cleaning.
-
Clean the outer part of the nostrils with hydrogen peroxide. You may apply antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to the outer nostrils.
-
Do not apply ice to the area unless your doctor says it’s okay.
-
Minimize sun exposure to the nose for at least
12 months. Always use a sunscreen with a high SPF when going out in the sun. -
Avoid trauma to your nose. Try not to bend over, bump your nose, or roll onto your face while asleep.
-
Avoid wearing glasses of any kind or resting anything on your nose for
2 months after surgery.
Other Home Care
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Take your medication exactly as directed.
-
Do not take aspirin unless your doctor says it’s okay.
-
Keep your head elevated when you rest or sleep for
7 days after surgery to keep swelling to a minimum. -
Try to rest quietly for the next
2-3 weeks. Avoid any activity that increases your blood pressure or pulse rate, because this could cause bleeding. -
You may shower or bathe after surgery, but be careful if you have an external cast on your nose. Casts should remain dry. So before taking a shower, make sure that the water flow does not hit your face. Adjust the showerhead if necessary.
Follow-Up
Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following:
-
Increasing pain or severe pain that is not relieved by medication
-
Fever of
100.4 °F or higher -
Yellow or green discharge from the wound
-
Increasing redness around the incision lines
-
Nose bleeding that does not slow down in
4-7 days -
Accidental bump of your nose
