Nose Surgery
The following instructions are intended to inform you and answer questions you may have pertaining to your surgery. Please read them carefully and completely. If you have any questions or problems, please feel free to call us. We want you to be as comfortable as possible during your post-operative period.
Care Instructions Following Rhinoplasty
- Apply ice compresses to your eyes for 48 hours to reduce the swelling.
- Swelling and black and blue discoloration around the eyes are likely and may be worse the second morning after surgery. The whites of your eyes may appear red. This is normal.
- Do not shower until splint is off; you may bathe (tub) after 24 hours of surgery. You may wash your hair (head back) 24 hours after surgery.
- A certain amount of bleeding from the nose occurs which will gradually stop. The "nasal diaper" can be changed as needed.
- You will be very stuffy after surgery. Your nasal packing will be removed seven days post-op. Your splint and tape will be removed seven to ten days after surgery. Oral decongestants may be used.
- Do not allow glasses to rest on your nose for two weeks after the surgery. Glasses may be taped to your forehead until then if necessary. Do not wear contact lenses for seven days after surgery.
- Do not put anything inside your nose. You may use a Q-tip with one half water and one half peroxide to clean base of nose GENTLY.
- Do not blow your nose for two weeks after surgery. Try to sneeze through your mouth if necessary.
- Do not use nasal sprays, drops or sinus medication for four hours. (Please try to contact office first).
- Sleep with your head elevated on two pillows for four days after surgery.
- Brush teeth gently one week after surgery. (A water pik is excellent during this time).
- Only EMERGENCY work is permitted during the first two weeks.
- Facial and eye makeup may be used after splint is removed.
- Avoid strenuous activities and exercise for two weeks after surgery. Body contact sports are prohibited for two months after surgery. (Volleyball, football, wrestling, etc.)
Read more about rhinoplasty with Dr. Chiaramonte.
Visit our plastic / cosmetic surgery office in Clinton, Maryland (MD) convenient from the Baltimore Maryland (MD), Washington, D.C. area.
