Tips for Caring for Your Nose After Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty San Diego, CA After nose surgery with Dr. Kearney, you’re anxious to see what your new nose will look like. But you’ll need to have some patience during your recovery. Whether your nose surgery was for cosmetic or functional reasons, the goal is to recover as soon as possible without complications. Dr. Kearney knows that a successful recovery is a critical component of your overall rhinoplasty experience.

Your initial recovery will take two weeks or more, although you will have some residual swelling for a few weeks. Here are some tips for a successful, speedy recovery from this intricate cosmetic procedure:

  • Limit facial muscle movements— This sounds obvious, but during your recovery you need to limit things such as laughing and smiling (only hang out with your more boring friends and watch murder mysteries on Netflix!). Be careful not to open your mouth too wide. Keep your nose from stretching too much or from being hit. Opt for food that is easy to chew; postpone having foods like steak that require more chewing.
  • Protect your nose from the sun— Unprotected sun exposure can cause permanent discoloration in your nose after rhinoplasty. Apply 30+ spf sunscreen and wear protective clothing. While it can be challenging in San Diego, you really don’t want any sun on your new nose until things are fully healed.
  • Choose the right clothes— During recovery, choose clothes that won’t possibly have physical contact with the nose area. Avoid tops that must be pulled over your head, such as sweaters and t-shirts. Button-down shirts are your best choice as you recover, as they minimize nose movement and possible bumping while dressing. Also, don’t wear sunglasses or reading glasses. If you need regular glasses tape them above your bridge.
  • Keep the exercise light— Fitness junkies can adjust to lighter workouts that restrict up-and-down movement. Also, don’t participate in sports that put you at risk of hitting your nose. Lastly, your nose will feel tender during recovery, which makes swimming, diving, and similar exercise a temporary no-no until you’re fully healed.

With patience and attention, gracefully recovering from rhinoplasty is easy. Dr. Kearney will explain the best practices for your recovery, so that you will be pleased with your new nose for the rest of your life.

If you have any questions about your recovery, or if you’re interested in a consultation for rhinoplasty with Dr. Kearney, call us at (858) 677-9352

Request an Appointment

* All indicated fields must be completed.
Please include non-medical questions and correspondence only.

Office Hours

Monday: 9:30am – 5:30pm
Tuesday: 9am – 5pm
Wednesday: 8:30am – 5:30pm
Thursday: 9am – 5pm
Friday: 8am – 2:30pm

Accessibility Toolbar

Scroll to Top