Case #3001
Rhinoplasty
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Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Discontinue blood thinners (NSAIDs, aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E) two weeks out. Acetaminophen remains safe; the full list is reviewed at pre-op.
- Full nicotine cessation 6 weeks pre- and post-op. This includes vapes and nicotine replacement products; the constriction effect is the same.
- Set up an elevated sleeping arrangement — extra pillows or a wedge — to keep the head above the heart for the first week. Stock soft, low-sodium foods.
- Day-of transport and an overnight companion (24 hours minimum) are required for discharge.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
Sleep elevated, gentle cold therapy, and quiet voice for the first 3 days. Bruising peaks midweek; swelling is at its most visible.
- Week 2
Stitches removed, residual bruising fading, social comfort returns. No lifting, no straining, no exercise yet.
- Week 4
The "I look like myself again" milestone for most. Camera comfort returns. Light cardio and yoga added back.
- Week 6
Standard clearance milestone. Patients return to most exercise, gym work, and sleeping in any position.
- Month 3
Tissue settles into final position. Subtle technique details (jawline definition, tip refinement) become visible now.
Continued care
Recommended aftercare, skincare, and MedSpa services for Rhinoplasty.
- External splint stays in place for 1 week
- Head elevated for sleeping for the first 2 weeks
- No glasses resting on the nose for 6 weeks
- Saline rinses to keep the internal lining clean during early healing
- Avoid direct sun for 3 months — SPF 50+ once incisions are sealed
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic on the columellar incision after sutures are removed
- Gentle facial cleansing only for the first 2 weeks
- LED light therapy weekly for 4–6 weeks to reduce swelling
- Lymphatic drainage starting week 2
- Skincare
Medical-grade skincare reintroduced at week 3 — gentle retinoid alternative first, full actives by month 2.
Active skincare resumes on a healing-friendly ramp after facial surgery.
