Rhinoplasty: stuffy nose after the operation
A common cosmetic surgery procedure, rhinoplasty requires a postoperative healing period, just like any other operation. A congested or stuffy nose is one of the effects that is regularly seen in recovering patients.
Is it normal? How long will the congestion last? Find the answers to your questions below.
A normal post-rhinoplasty observation!
Nasal congestion is to be expected after rhinoplasty. There is nothing abnormal about this congestion. Your surgeon certainly must have mentioned that it would be highly likely to experience nasal congestion after rhinoplasty.
Can this congestion be painful?
While post-rhinoplasty congestion may be uncomfortable or unpleasant, it isn’t painful. In fact, from the start of the procedure to full recovery, rhinoplasty is painless.
Why would my nose feel stuffy after rhinoplasty?
First of all, it’s important to know that there are two types of rhinoplasty — open and closed. The latter, which is less invasive, has less of an impact on the internal and external nasal tissue.
Needless to say, those who undergo open rhinoplasty are more likely to experience swelling. And it’s precisely this (entirely normal and expected) inflammation that causes postoperative congestion.
It should be noted that each patient is unique, and so is each surgery. This is why some patients experience very little swelling, while for others, it can be bothersome.
The postoperative follow-up is designed to monitor and reduce unpleasant symptoms, such as a stuffy nose. Advice and solutions (such as prescription medication) will be provided to you by your surgeon as needed.
How long will this congestion last?
Generally, the inflammation that causes swelling will diminish within approximately four weeks.
Of course, more than one factor determines the speed at which the swelling decreases. Some of these factors include the type of rhinoplasty (open or closed), how well the tissue heals, and good postoperative care.
Again, you will be guided by your surgeon, who will make sure that everything heals properly. This is the most important thing for them — more important than temporary discomfort.
Can I blow my nose to relieve the congestion?
Blowing your nose may seem to be the best way to find relief while recovering from rhinoplasty. But you must wait some time — around two weeks — before doing so.
In the meantime, you can clean your nose with a saline solution or any other method suggested by your cosmetic surgeon.
This practice will also help to keep the nasal tissue moist, and thus in a better position to heal.
If I can’t blow my nose, how can I clean it?
The procedure leads to the formation of small scabs. These are the result of slight bleeding that coagulated as expected.
If blowing my nose to find relief or get them out is not recommended, how do I clean my nose?
Products such as saline vaporizers may be prescribed to soften this residue. It makes it easier to clean your nose without blowing it.
If in doubt, what should I do?
It’s normal to be unsure about the postoperative effects of rhinoplasty: stuffy nose, bruising, discomfort, etc. The best solution is to contact your surgeon’s office. They or their team will be able to reassure you and guide you toward various options, if needed.
Rhinoplasty before-and-afters: Motivating and comforting
For someone whose nose is round, big or very small, rhinoplasty is an effective way of overcoming feelings of insecurity. The most satisfying moment after the procedure is seeing the before and after comparison of their rhinoplasty results.
Successful rhinoplasty procedures, presented in photographs and as patient testimonials, are often among the factors that help us move forward. They also increase our tolerance to effects such as a stuffy nose.
Imagining ourselves in our best light and seeing the procedure as a gift to ourselves makes the experience much more pleasant.
One thing is sure: When you choose a surgeon you trust, your choice becomes clear!
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