Open Rhinoplasty Recovery Time

Open rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgery technique that may be used when significant changes to the nose shape are required. Recovery in this procedure may take a relatively longer time as compared to closed rhinoplasty. In any case, the actual recovery period will depend on a number of factors such as the degree of correction performed, the skill of the operating surgeon and the patient’s natural ability to heal. Dr. Hisham Seify is a board certified plastic surgeon providing open rhinoplasty and various other procedures of the face, body and breast. During the initial consultation, Dr. Seify will discuss all aspects of open nose surgery, including its estimated recovery time. He provides this proven procedure to patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and surrounding locations across the landscape.  

Initial Period of Recovery

In the first week, the patient will experience mild pain and discomfort in the incision site. A dull headache may also occasionally occur for a brief period. Severe pain will not occur, unless the patient suffers from an infection. Prescription pain meds can be used to manage the initial discomfort. Internal swelling in the nose may cause nasal congestion for a few days. As the swelling resolves over the next few weeks, the congestion will be gone. If the patient experienced breathing obstructions in the nostrils before the surgery, they are likely to receive immediate relief despite the swelling. If the nasal congestion is disturbing the patient’s sleep, the surgeon may prescribe mild sleep aid drugs following nose plastic surgery. For the first few days after open rhinoplasty, the patient should refrain from blowing the nose. If the surgeon skillfully and delicately handles the nasal tissue, it will mitigate the trauma and yet produce desirable outcomes. Recovery time will be reduced in such cases.  

Returning to Work

Within a week to 10 days after open rhinoplasty, most patients will be able to resume their normal activities or return to their workplace. A cast on the nose may be in place in the first week, but it will be removed thereafter along with sutures and drain tubes. Mild bruising and swelling will be present in the second week, but the patient can use makeup to tone down its appearance.  

How to Reduce Recovery Period

The patient should keep the incision sites free of contamination until the healing is completed. This will minimize the risk of post-operative infection. The surgeon may also prescribe antibiotics for a few days. The patient should stay committed to not smoking during the recovery phase. Nicotine in tobacco smoke can interfere with the body’s oxygen flow and cause delayed healing. The patient should avoid vigorous exercises and lifting of heavy weights for about one month. Strain on the incision sites should be minimal until the healing is complete. The patient should diligently maintain the schedule of post-operative appointments to allow the surgeon to monitor the recovery. Patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and nearby areas have an opportunity to receive open rhinoplasty from experienced and judicious cosmetic surgeon Dr. Seify. See more procedures and treatments by plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify in Newport Beach, Orange County, , Irvine, Anaheim, Fullerton, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA and surrounding areas.

• https://newportplastic.com/
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