Case #3002
Rhinoplasty
Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Stop NSAIDs, aspirin, and high-dose fish oil two weeks before surgery; the surgical team provides a full medication list at the pre-op visit.
- 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
Cold compresses, head elevated, low-talking the first 72 hours. Most bruising peaks at day 3 and starts to soften by day 5.
- Week 2
Visible bruising is mostly resolved by day 10. Sutures out by day 7. Patients return to indoor activities, low-impact only.
- Week 4
Residual swelling continues to refine. Most patients return to normal social and work life; light cardio begins.
- Week 6
The "back to normal" week for most patients. Final compression schedule transitions to optional.
- Month 3
Final swelling resolves on the deeper tissue planes. Most aesthetic refinements emerge between months 3 and 6.
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.
