Rhinoplasty: How To Quicken Recovery and Ease Swelling

One of the most popular forms of cosmetic surgery, the rhinoplasty has allowed millions of men and women to make dramatic changes to their face by re-shaping their nose. One of the only procedures of this type that is performed somewhat commonly on even people under the age of eighteen, there are few other cosmetic procedures that can make as big of a difference when it comes to the way a person looks. In spite of this, the surgery is not without its drawbacks. Anyone who has had the procedure can tell you that some swelling is par for the course. There is nothing you can do about that, but there are some things you can do to make your recovery as painless as possible.

One of the best things you can do to avoid both swelling and surgical complications during a rhinoplasty is to stop taking over the counter medications for about a week leading up to the procedure. Many of these medications thin out the blood, especially aspirin. This can lead to some delays in clotting during the procedure and increased swelling afterwards. Ask your doctor about taking OTC drugs both before and after your surgery. In all likelihood, you will be prescribed pain medication following the rhinoplasty. Follow your doctor’s instructions when it comes to taking that medication and any others after you are home.

While you should never try to rush your recovery, it can help to reduce swelling if you get up and do some light activity. Just moving around a little can get the blood circulating, which will prevent it from pooling up in your face. Of course, never push past what you feel comfortable doing and never resume vigorous activities until your doctor says it is okay. Trying to do too much activity too early can lead to the very opposite of what you’re trying to achieve. Just getting up every so often and taking a short walk around will do wonders for the healing process and your mental state.

Finally, cold compresses can make a big difference in how much swelling occurs. Not only that, but you might find that they simply make you feel better as you are recovering from the rhinoplasty. Your doctor will give you instructions about using your cold compress, and you should follow these instructions, just as you will any other instructions given to you by your surgeon. In the absence of an ice bag, frozen peas or frozen corn can be used as an alternative means of keeping your face cool.