Tag: recovery after rhinoplasty

When and How to Resume Exercising after Rhinoplasty
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

When and How to Resume Exercising after Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is a very popular surgical procedure that is often sought by people who want to refine and reshape their noses. As rhinoplasty is a facial surgical procedure, some people might assume that you could return to exercising soon after nose surgery. However, this isn’t the case. Even though the surgery is performed on your nose only, your body needs time to heal after a complex intervention. Performing any sort of intense activity too soon can negatively impact your results and slow down the healing. Prematurely injuring your nose while exercising soon after surgery can also result in post-surgical complications.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Jeremy Hunt has completed hundreds of nose surgeries in Australia.

Risks of Exercising Too Soon After Rhinoplasty

Any kind of physical activity will have an influence that will extend to the face. All in all, your entire body will need to heal and recover post-surgery if don’t want to impact your results. A moderate and intense workout can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. As a result, you are at risk of bleeding, bruising, and other complications. You are also more prone to experience an increase in swelling which can delay the healing process.

You also have to protect your new nose from all forms of injury after the surgery. The tissues in your nose are extremely fragile at this point. Any kind of bumping or an impact could lead to long-lasting damage. You don’t want to ruin the results while you are healing. In order to protect your nose, it is best to delay working out until at least six weeks after surgery (or as advised by your surgeon).

Here are some general guidelines for exercising post rhinoplasty. You need to listen to your surgeon and your own body before doing any form of exercise workout. If you are feeling lightheaded, dealing with a throbbing pain surrounding your nose or witnessing an increase in swelling, STOP immediately.

Suggested Exercise Timeline for Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)

While every individual is different and will heal at a different pace, here is a general exercise timeline to follow post-surgery:

1 Week Post Cosmetic Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)

It is important to rest for the first seven days of the surgery. At this point, the only activity that is recommended is light walking around the house. Do not exceed 20 minutes at a time. Gentle walking will help to improve blood circulation, increase the risk of clotting and speed up the healing process.

At any point, if you feel fatigued, out of breath, have an increased heart rate, or are dizzy, it is important to stop immediately and let your body heal to prevent the risk of bleeding. Your main focus should be healing and recovery during the first week. Take all the pain medication timely to prevent the swelling and bruising to go down immediately. If you have any concerns contact your nurse or doctor.

Focus on resting and keep your body hydrated. At this point, you shouldn’t do any physically demanding activities, just gentle walking.

2-4 Weeks Post Rhinoplasty

During this period, your stitches and nasal splint will be removed if required. On the day of this appointment, you will need to take a 24-hour break from all sorts of activities. After that, you can slowly increase the strength of your walks or add low-impact workouts. You can gradually add no-contact, moderately-paced exercises to your routine. Some strength training activity is alright at this point as long as it doesn’t put a strain on your body (be sure to keep the intensity moderate). Avoid road cycling as it comes with a risk of falling down and this could be leading to a nose injury. While yoga seems like a gentle exercise, stay clear of inversions or any poses that require bowing your head forward.

You will be prone to bleeding if your heart rate gets higher when the blood flow is directed to your head. Your nose will be quite sensitive to all forms of bouncing, bumping, and touch. Running and swimming should be avoided at this point.

4-6 Weeks After Rhinoplasty

Once the first month of recovery has passed, you can slowly increase the intensity and duration of your exercise. Make sure to get a confirmation from your surgeon and keep listening to your body. Avoid doing any forms of exercise or indulging in sports that pose a risk of falling or getting bumped in the face. Most people can return to yoga inversions and start incorporating strength training workouts at this point. Always look out for overexertion and take breaks as needed. An ideal way to start getting back to your workout routine is to work with a professional trainer.

If your surgeon approves, you can also resume swimming. It all depends on whether your nose has healed fully or not.

6 Weeks Plus After Rhinoplasty

Most people will take around six weeks to recover fully in terms of healing structural tissues. This essentially means that you can return to higher-impact workouts. Even at this point, it is still a good idea to avoid contact sports.

Each patient is unique and can take several months to recover from the surgery. Your nose is still susceptible to getting injured. Hence, it is critical to get clearance from your surgeon. If you regularly play contact sports like soccer or hockey, it is important to get fitted for a protective mask and wear it for a few months.

Getting Back to Exercising

Pushing through the recovery a little too soon can alter the results of your surgery. You will never regret being kinder and more patient with your body when you needed it the most.

Start Slow

Even though you might not feel restricted and limited in your movements as compared to undergoing other procedures such as abdominoplasty, body lift (torsoplasty) or breast augmentation mammoplasty, it is important to realise that rhinoplasty is still a complex surgical procedure. So, be patient and take it slow.

Light Aerobics

You will be allowed to start light walking a day after the surgery. Dr Hunt encourages light walking to kick-start the healing process and prevent the formation of blood clots. Activities like running, jogging, and other aerobic exercises are to be avoided for the first week or two. You can add light aerobic exercises after two weeks if Dr Hunt has given you clearance to do so. This measure is taken to protect the stitches and allow your bones to heal properly. Your breathing will be obstructed for the first two to three weeks, making intense workouts more difficult.

Bending Over

Stay clear of any exercises that require you to bend over for the first week or two. It includes touching your toes, crunches, and lifting. For a week post-surgery, avoid lifting anything that is more than 2 kg. Yes, it includes your children (if you have any). The pressure caused by lifting and bending might cause the stitches to pop up and slow down the healing process. Limit your sexual activities for the first week. It is recommended to sleep alone to stay clear of any accidental bumping during the night.

Contact Sports and Heavy Lifting

If you are someone who loves to play contact sports, run hard, do heavy lifting, and other similar activities you need to know that returning to your regular exercise routine should only be considered once the initial six weeks after surgery are over. While it does sound like a very long period, it will protect you from all sorts of complications.

You can move your body freely only when your surgeon approves. Till then, stick to safer and bounce-free workouts. Opting for any kind of contact sports is not recommended for the initial six months. Refrain from spending a lot of time outdoors as it can lead to sunburn which might affect the healing process and cause swelling. Sunblock should be applied at all times while stepping out.

How Long Does Full Recovery Take After Rhinoplasty?

It can take around six weeks or more for your nose structures to reassemble and recover adequately. This is the point when you can resume your usual workout routine. As a general rule of thumb, please resume gentler, non-contact exercises at this point. You should start slow and be very careful regarding activities that require a lot of motion or bouncing. Stay clear of high-impact workouts such as aerobics, running, jogging, and jumping rope for the first six weeks.

As you will be resuming your exercise routine after a long pause, you should be very careful while easing back into your routine. It is not recommended to jump right back into a high-intensity yoga class or run the same distance as you used to. Stop exercising immediately if you are experiencing throbbing of the nose. Your body will signal you when it is time to stop. Pay attention and listen to it. If you are taking pain medication, your body signals won’t be as evident so you need to be even more careful.

When it comes to contact sports, you have to wait longer. This is due to the fact that they pose a serious threat to your nose and can result in major injuries. It is best to practice caution to prevent complications. As they say, it is better to be safe than sorry. Contact sports include basketball, football, hockey, baseball, and any other sport where there is the slightest chance of being hit by a ball or a person. That is why Dr Hunt might ask you to avoid those for three to six months. Make sure to wear proper protective gear even when you get back in the game.

Getting Back to Your Active Lifestyle & Exercising After Rhinoplasty

When you are an exercise enthusiast and have a very active lifestyle, it is very hard to take a break. However, it is essential for your recovery. This much-needed break will give your body due time to heal post surgery and protect your nose from any kind of injury. Keep in mind that there are a few things you can do to boost the recovery process.

Try to incorporate foods such as turmeric, ginger, pineapple and blueberries that have natural anti-inflammatory properties. Avoid excessively salty foods and drink enough water. Try to eat home-cooked meals instead of store-bought ones and sleep for a minimum of eight hours a night.

All these steps can help reduce your chances of complications after surgery. At any point during the recovery phase, if you notice any signs of complications, it is important to reach out to your doctor.

While a little bit of movement post-rhinoplasty is encouraged, you shouldn’t overdo it. Make sure to stick to the timeline provided and always consult your surgeon. Light to moderate activities can be resumed six weeks after the surgery. However, challenging training sessions should be postponed for a few months. The best way to go about is to hire a physical trainer who helps people who have just undergone a surgical procedure. Listening to your surgeon and your body at all times can help you prevent most surgery-related complications.

Further Reading about Rhinoplasty

Other Medical References about Exercising after Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

dr jeremy hunt
Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is suitable for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and requires a personalised approach to reach their goals.

Dr Hunt has provided his one-on-one service and attention to detail to thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A. Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from well-established and experienced plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction mammoplasty is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

Tips to Minimise Swelling and Bruising after Rhinoplasty
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Tips to Minimise Swelling and Bruising after Rhinoplasty

Taking proper care of yourself post-surgery will help you get the optimal outcome and minimise the chances of any risks and complications. One of the most common side effects of rhinoplasty is bruising and swelling. It is common and to be expected. The extent of bruising and swelling post nose surgery or rhinoplasty depends on several factors: the technique used, how well you follow the post-op instructions and your body’s response to surgical trauma.

If you are worried about bruising and swelling that will come along with a new shape and size of the nose, this article aims to answer all your questions. While it is a very normal part of the recovery process, both of these symptoms can be very annoying and uncomfortable.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Jeremy Hunt has completed hundreds of nose surgeries in Australia. Dr Hunt practices in Sydney and Wollongong NSW.

What to Expect with Swelling and Bruising after Rhinoplasty

During the surgery, trauma is caused to the tissues which leads to post-operative swelling. The majority of the swelling will subside within the first two weeks after surgery. The rest of the swelling might still be noticeable and will take a few weeks or even months to subside completely. However, it won’t be something so obvious that you shy away from different activities.

Bruising post rhinoplasty mostly occurs underneath the eyes and resolves on its own within the first 10 days after surgery. In general, most people would be able to return to their social activities within 2 to 3 weeks, provided that you follow all the post-op instructions.

Stages of Healing after Rhinoplasty

Complete recovery from rhinoplasty will take a few weeks. Having an idea of different healing stages will enable you to track the progress and feel comfortable while you wait for the final results to become visible.

Rhinoplasty surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. You might be asked to stay in a hospital overnight. You will be cleared to go home once you have recovered from the effects of the anaesthesia. Dr Hunt will provide you with a list of detailed instructions to follow post the treatment. These instructions will help you manage pain and prevent infections.

You might be asked to stick to the following care measures for the first few days:

  • Wash your nose with saline water at least three times a day
  • You can use a Chlorsig eye ointment in every single nostril and on the incisions. It will keep the sutures and scabs soft and prevent irritation
  • One week after your post-operative visit, the cast will be removed and your nose will be vacuumed

It is important to know that swelling might make your face appear asymmetrical and your nose will also appear fat. The upper lip will be quite swollen which might distort your smile. Don’t worry as it will settle over time.

You might also experience swelling on your nose tip along with the upper lip which might distort your smile temporarily. It is also normal to experience some level of tenderness on your nose and around the face. These can be managed with over-the-counter medications.

Recovery after Rhinoplasty

  • Your swelling will start to reduce significantly after two weeks
  • The bruising will subside around the eyes
  • The shape of your nose will become more and more visible
  • You will not see the complete results in the first weeks
  • You can go back to your usual exercise routine after two to four weeks
  • Stay clear of contact sports for at least 6 weeks
  • Do not wear glasses for at least six weeks as they will leave footprints on your new nose
  • By the end of six weeks, your nasal bone structure will stabilise and continue to improve over time
  • Any lingering swelling will also continue to improve after 8 weeks
  • Your nose tip will become more refined as your swelling continues to decrease over the period of 3 to 6 months
  • Most of the swelling will resolve on its own by the end of a few months
  • After one year, the scars are fully healed and the final results are visible. Your nasal structure will be fully conformed into a new, modified shape with all the oedema gone for good

How Much Bruising and Swelling is Normal after Nose Surgery?

While most patients experience bruising and swelling, the extent of these side effects is based on a variety of different factors. Some of them are discussed below:

Different Rhinoplasty Techniques and swelling / bruising

Certain Rhinoplasty techniques can worsen the swelling. Dr Hunt will guide you in detail in regards to recovery and managing your expectations when it comes to rhinoplasty. For instance, moving nasal bones will lead to worse swelling. On the other hand, if your rhinoplasty procedures involve altering the shape of the nostrils, the swelling won’t be as obvious. The more extensive the surgery is, the more swelling you are bound to expect.

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Your Body’s Response to Surgery

Every individual is different and will heal at a different pace. Certain patients are more susceptible to swelling than others. It can be attributed to the age, thickness of the skin, circulation, nutrition, and other factors that influence the natural healing response of the body.

Post-Surgical Care after Rhinoplasty

You will be given detailed post-surgical instructions to follow after the surgery. Make sure that you are following these tips closely to keep swelling, bruising, and other side effects to a minimum. We have created a list of instructions to help you achieve the best possible experience post rhinoplasty.

Medications

It is important to be informed about all the medications that can worsen the swelling and bruising post-surgery. Make sure that you aren’t taking them during the recovery.

Smoking

Smoking will delay the natural healing response of your body. Please avoid smoking, vaping and second hand smoke if you want a smoother recovery.

Tips for Minimising Bruising and Swelling after Rhinoplasty

The following tips can help you minimise bruising and swelling after rhinoplasty surgery. You will be given a list of detailed instructions regarding Rhinoplasty surgery. Make sure to follow all these instructions as closely as possible. At any point, if you have any confusion and concerns, reach out to the surgeon immediately.

You need to be cautious of the medications you are taking during and after the surgery. Do not take any over the counter drugs. Stay clear of blood-thinning medications if you don’t want the swelling to linger for long.

Certain herbal supplements and teas can also increase the risk of bleeding and cause your blood to become thinner. It is important to avoid them during the first 2 to 3 weeks post-surgery.

Use ice on the treated area to minimise swelling after the surgery for the initial few days. Don’t ice burn yourself and wrap the ice in a towel before application.

Keep your head in an elevated position while laying down. Ideally, you should be sleeping in a recliner. If not, stack a few pillows underneath the head.

Do not smoke and drink for at least 2 weeks before and after the surgery.

Staying patient is very important for the recovery phase. Most of the swelling and bruising will resolve on their own in a couple of weeks. However, do not rush the recovery process and let your body heal at its own pace. Make sure to stick to all the pre and post-op instructions.

Returning to Work after Rhinoplasty Surgery

Most people are worried about returning to work or keeping up with their social commitments with all the swelling and bruising after rhinoplasty. Dr Hunt will advise most patients to take a week or two off from work. After the initial two weeks, you can use makeup on your nose to cover up the swelling and bruising while going out in public.

FAQs about Swelling and Bruising after Rhinoplasty

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Here is a list of frequently asked questions we get regarding rhinoplasty recovery:

Will I need a rhinoplasty revision surgery?

  • The national average of revision rhinoplasty is around 15%. These surgeries are done due to poor aesthetic or functional results. Hence, it is crucial to spend some time finding a skilled and experienced surgeon for the initial surgery. The right surgeon will ensure you are satisfied with the results.

How much swelling is normal after rhinoplasty?

  • The extent of swelling depends on the rhinoplasty techniques used to alter the shape and size the nose. Most of the swelling will subside in about two weeks’ time frame if you stick to all the pre and post-surgical instructions.

My nose tip is swelling up, is it normal?

  • Yes, it is normal and to be expected. There is nothing to worry about as it will subside with time.

Can I ruin my rhinoplasty results?

  • Yes, any damage to your nose during the recovery phase might end up ruining the results. Make sure to take extra care of yourself during the recovery phase and stick to all the pre and post-operative instructions.

Can I use makeup to cover my bruising?

  • Yes, you can use makeup to cover your bruising once your incisions have healed. It will generally take around one to two weeks. After that, you can comfortably wear makeup. Avoid putting any excess pressure on the nose while applying makeup.

How should I sleep after rhinoplasty?

  • You need to sleep on your back and keep your head in an elevated position. Ideally, you should use a recliner. Alternatively, you can also stack a few pillows underneath your head. Do not sleep on your side or front for at least a month. You can lay flat on your back after two weeks.

When should I get my bruising checked after rhinoplasty?

  • It is common for bruising to linger on for a week or two after rhinoplasty. If your bruising doesn’t improve after one week or is getting worse over time, you should connect with your surgeon asap and let him know.

Further Reading about Nose Surgery

Medical References about Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr Jeremy Hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing cosmetic and plastic surgery in Sydney.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has ensured that thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia have received high quality surgical care.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.