Case #3003
Rhinoplasty
18 year old female who was unhappy about her dorsal hump and droopy nasal tip. She wanted a straight nasal bridge with a more refined tip, while maintaining a natural appearing nose. Dr. Azadgoli performed an open rhinoplasty to address her concerns.
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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.
- Sleep elevated for the first week. Stock the kitchen with low-sodium soft foods, since chewing comfort and salt-driven swelling both matter early.
- Confirm a driver for surgery day and a companion who can stay through the first night.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
First week is rest, elevation, and ice. Expect the most swelling on day 3, then a steady downhill from day 5 onward.
- Week 2
Sutures or tape come off around day 7–10. Most patients are camera-ready for everyday life by the end of week 2 (lingering swelling, not bruising).
- Week 4
Facial contour 70–80 percent settled. Light cardio, yoga, and gentle facial massage cleared by the surgical team.
- Week 6
Most physical restrictions lift. Return to strength training, full-impact cardio, and overhead lifting.
- 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.
