Rhinoplasty is a popular option for people who are not satisfied with their nose’s shape or size. Besides, the procedure fulfills cosmetic requirements and helps with more versatile applications like improving nasal function after any illness or a traumatic injury. It can also address breathing problems that hamper your sleep and exercise regimes.
Just like every aspect of plastic surgery, having realistic expectations about recovery is incredibly important. One must understand what to expect from rhinoplasty and how to facilitate a smooth recovery and a beautiful outcome. Getting a rhinoplasty in Austin, TX, can ensure a rewarding surgical experience right from the first consultation to your final results.
Let’s know what to expect from rhinoplasty. We have listed four of the most prominent ones.
1. Post-operative Discomforts
You can expect some swelling, bruising, and numbness right after the rhinoplasty surgery. The extent of your swelling and bruising will depend on the procedure used. One might experience mild pain as a result of the bruised sensation and swelling. Another post-op sign is minor bleeding (oozing), common in the first 24-48 hours after surgery. All of these signs and discomforts are entirely normal.
The doctor will most likely place a splint inside and outside of your nose or in both locations. This procedure will support and protect your new nasal structures while they heal. You will be prescribed pain medications to help you manage any post-operative discomfort. Towards the end of the first week after your rhinoplasty surgery, you will begin to feel much better, especially when your surgeon removes any packing or splint.
2. Emotional Roller-Coaster
For the first one to two weeks after rhinoplasty, you may experience a post-operative emotional roller-coaster. Due to discomfort, nasal obstruction, and elevation, keeping your emotions in control can be difficult after surgery. Watching your face swollen and discolored can lead to a period of mild anxiety and depression. One may experience insomnia or sleep disturbances due to an emotional imbalance.
Do not worry; this is normal and should pass quickly. All you can do is be realistic and realize this is a temporary situation and will subside with time. You can keep yourself busy with postoperative care and try to divert your mind. For sleeplessness, you can ask for prescription sleeping medicine for a night or two. Whatever may be your concern, make sure to discuss it with your surgeon so that you can heal faster.
3. Restricted Activity
For about two weeks, you may have to sleep with the head of your bed elevated. One should avoid wearing eyeglasses briefly while the splint remains on the nose. You may opt to insert contact lenses for a day or two after surgery. This is important because the pressure of the glasses may change the new contour of your nose. If you feel the need to sneeze, let it come out like a cough through the mouth.
Avoid any activities for at least six weeks and any sports for two months to avoid any impact on the nose or getting bumped. Make sure to wear clothing that can be worn from the front or back and not pulled over the head until the doctor removes the bandage. Although the surgeons recommend restricting impactful activities or exercises, you can begin light exercise after ten days. You may go for regular walks for proper healing. After several weeks, you may work up to aerobic exercises and running.
4. Realistic Results
Although a lot of care and attention is needed during your recovery road to excellent results, try to be patient as you wait to see what your enhanced nose will look like. Rhinoplasty is a life-changing experience. The procedure will help your face look symmetrical and lovely, provided you have realistic expectations. Imperfections can be corrected to make your nose look its best.
Moreover, with your improved looks, you will eventually feel more self-confident. If you were conscious or embarrassed about the way your nose looks, rhinoplasty could develop confidence in your appearance after surgery. Apart from removing those imperfections, few opt for rhinoplasty because their noses prevent them from breathing correctly. As mentioned above, rhinoplasty helps people breathe properly. You can expect quite a difference in your ability to breathe after surgery.
Conclusion
The recovery period for most patients is within a year after their rhinoplasty. However, you mustn’t have unreasonable expectations. The procedure will not bring automatic changes to your life or lead to instant popularity. Rhinoplasty offers you the chance to improve your nose’s size and shape, bring facial balance, and treat breathing issues.
However, it is a serious surgical procedure that requires a skilled and experienced facial plastic surgeon. You will have the opportunity to talk about why you wish to opt for the surgery and what you hope to gain from it. Make sure to discuss any questions or concerns with your surgeon about rhinoplasty and receive the right answers you need to make an informed decision.
