RHINOPLASTY (NOSE RESHAPING SURGERY)
AFTER CARE

Immediately After Surgery (First 48 Hours)

• You will wake up with an external nasal splint or cast (to support the new shape) and, in some cases, internal silicone splints (to support internal structures and septum).
• Mild blood-tinged nasal drainage is normal for the first 24–48 hours.
• Swelling and bruising will appear around the eyes and nose, peaking at 48–72 hours.
• Apply cold compresses gently around (not on) the nose for 10–15 minutes every hour while awake.
• Keep your head elevated at 30–45°, even while sleeping.
• Do not blow your nose; sneeze with your mouth open.
• Avoid bending, lifting, or straining.
• Mild nasal congestion or mouth breathing is expected.
• Eat soft foods, drink fluids, and avoid very hot beverages.

Goal: Protect the nasal framework, reduce swelling, and prevent bleeding.

Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline

Week 1 – Early Healing & Splint/Stitch Removal

• Bruising and swelling are at their peak during the first 3 days, then begin to subside.
• Keep applying cold compresses for the first 48 hours, then switch to gentle warm compresses after day 4.
• Continue saline nasal spray several times daily to keep internal passages moist.
• Sleep with head elevated for at least 7 days.
• External nasal splint (cast) is usually removed at day 7–10 during your follow-up visit.
• Internal silicone splints (if used) are generally removed between day 5–10, depending on healing and swelling.
• External skin stitches (if an open rhinoplasty incision was made) are removed around day 5–7.
• After removal, the nose may look swollen or “upturned” for a few days — this is normal.
• Avoid touching or pressing the nose; do not wear glasses or sunglasses.
• Gentle walking is allowed but avoid strenuous activity or heat exposure.

Goal: Ensure stable framework support, reduce swelling, and begin comfortable breathing through the nose.

Week 2 – Improvement & Bruise Resolution

• Most bruising around the eyes fades noticeably.
• Moderate swelling remains, especially at the nasal tip and bridge.
• The nose feels firm or slightly numb; light sensitivity may persist.
• Continue saline irrigation 3–4 times per day.
• Avoid eyeglasses or rest them on cheek tape if necessary.
• Light desk or computer work can resume.
• Begin gentle lymphatic massage to the cheeks and under-eye areas (if cleared by Dr. Ahmed Khazbak).
• Avoid direct sunlight, saunas, or hot steam.

Goal: Encourage circulation and lymphatic drainage, reducing residual puffiness.

Weeks 3–4 – Refinement & Early Definition

• Swelling continues to decrease; bridge and tip contour start to appear.
• Morning swelling is common and improves with elevation.
• Light makeup can be applied to cover redness.
• Continue saline rinses and gentle external cleaning.
• Resume light, non-impact exercise such as walking or cycling.
• Avoid impact sports or anything that risks trauma to the nose.

Goal: Allow tissues to adapt smoothly to their refined structure.

Weeks 5–6 – Return to Normal Activity

• About 60–70% of swelling has resolved; bruising is minimal.
• Breathing continues to improve as internal swelling decreases.
• Light gym workouts may resume (no contact sports or heavy lifting).
• Minor tip swelling may persist — this gradually softens over several months.
• Protect the nose from any accidental bumping or pressure.

Goal: Regain comfort and resume most normal routines safely.

Months 3–6 – Final Maturation

• The nose becomes more refined, soft, and natural-looking.
• Remaining swelling (especially at the tip) continues to fade.
• Scars — if an external incision was made — turn pale and blend with surrounding skin.
• Breathing feels fully clear and stable.
• Final nasal shape continues to settle up to 12 months post-surgery.

Goal: Achieve a natural, balanced, and long-lasting nasal contour.

Recovery & Lifestyle Tips

• Keep your head elevated for the first 10 days.
• Avoid smoking or nicotine for 4 weeks (slows healing).
• Wear sunscreen daily and avoid direct sun for 3 months.
• Avoid alcohol and salty foods — they increase swelling.
• Stay hydrated and follow a balanced, high-protein diet.
• Do not wear glasses or sunglasses until at least 6 weeks post-surgery (unless taped to cheeks).
• Attend all follow-up visits for splint, stitch, and healing evaluations.

When to Contact Dr. Ahmed Khazbak

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This plan represents general recovery guidelines after lipoabdominoplasty. Healing speed, agarment use, massage timing, and return to activity vary by individual case and Dr. Ahmed Khazbak’s preference. Always follow Dr. Ahmed Khazbak’s personalised instructions.