Rhinoplasty Recovery
What to Expect After Surgery
Cast/ splints – Immediately after surgery, a small splint supported by tape will be placed on the outside of your nose to protect it from injury, minimize swelling and keep the new structure stable for five days. The splint does not shape the new nose it is merely there for your protection.
Packing – Nasal packing can be very uncomfortable for patients in the postoperative period therefore Dr. Hamilton does not use any packing in the nose after rhinoplasty surgery. Traditionally, packing has been used to stabilize the nose after surgery and prevent bleeding. Dr. Hamilton performs rhinoplasty in a manner that avoids the use of painful packing.
Your face and nose will feel puffy the first few days after surgery this is normal. In the immediate days following surgery, you may experience bruising and minor swelling in the eye area. Cold compresses often reduce the bruising and discomfort. Pain medication may be required and will be prescribed. An antibiotic is also typical prescribed for the first five days after surgery.
At your post operative appointment all dressings/splints/casts and any nonabsorbable sutures will be removed. Nasal dressings and splints are usually removed five days after surgery. Dr. Hamilton will then discuss with you how to speed up the healing process in the upcoming weeks. It is crucial that you follow all of Dr. Hamilton’s directions to achieve the best results from surgery and have a smooth recovery.
