A California rhinoplasty is most often done to create a more aesthetically pleasing and proportionate nose. However, it is sometimes done instead to correct an injury to the nose or to improve breathing. This is an in-depth surgical procedure that is done via outpatient surgery, and that requires a lengthy recovery period. Patients will need to plan on staying at home for a certain number of days before returning to some of their usual activities and will also need to wait even longer before they will see complete results.
Recovery Immediately After Facelift Cosmetic Procedure
When the California patient first comes home after the surgery, he will have packing in his nose and will most likely be wearing a nose splint. This is designed to protect the now quite fragile structures in the nose. This also promotes faster healing by ensuring that there is no unnecessary movement in the area during the first few days of recovery.
The initial symptoms that the patient will see include discomfort and swelling. Discomfort can often be reduced with over-the-counter medications, or a more powerful prescription pain medication may be needed. To combat swelling, the patient will need to rest with the head elevated for the first few weeks and will need to care for the area quite gently at first. In addition, there will be bruising around the area, including around the eyes. This should begin decreasing by the third or fourth day after surgery.
Long-Term Recovery & Great Results
The good news for patients is that most recovery is done at home. As an outpatient surgery, California rhinoplasty does not usually require an overnight hospital stay. Instead, within an hour or two of the surgery, the patient can return home. Patients may be able to go back to work within a week. However, very vigorous activities are to be avoided for a month to six weeks. This is to ensure that the area does not begin to bleed again. Although swelling may not go away completely for up to a year, the majority of swelling will dissipate within the first few months.
Patients should plan on taking plenty of time for California rhinoplasty recovery. By following the surgeon’s instructions carefully and returning for follow-up appointments, patients can ensure that they heal quickly and completely without any unwelcome side effects. Once recovery is complete, they can enjoy a beautifully shaped nose that it is perfectly proportioned to the other features on the face.