Rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure used to reshape the nose. Rhinoplasty aims to make your nose appear more symmetrical and proportionate with the rest of your face.
The procedure may also correct a congenital disability or improve some breathing difficulties. In other cases, Rhinoplasty repairs an injury or fixes physical abnormalities like facial scoliosis.
Because Rhinoplasty is a complex surgery with many consequences, a good night’s sleep post-op is essential for your recovery and overall health. If you have a problem with sleep, this could disrupt your healing process and cause complications for your nasal surgery.
Steps to follow after rhinoplasty
Remember these steps to ensure the best possible recovery after your nose surgery.
- After Rhinoplasty, you will breathe and smell better. You may also experience swelling and bruises that will clear up after a few weeks.
- The first step is to rest and take care of yourself, avoiding strenuous activity for at least two weeks after surgery.
- Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach in the first-week post-op.
- Also, have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon. They’ll be able to check in on your progress and ensure that everything is healing well.
- After your surgery, it is essential to follow up with your dermatologist so they can monitor any changes in your skin or scars and make adjustments if necessary.
Why is Sleep Essential After Rhinoplasty Surgery?
Sleep after any surgery is essential, and this is especially true for Rhinoplasty. Sleep helps to speed up the recovery process by allowing your body to relax and repair itself.
In addition to helping your body recover from the stress of surgery, sleep helps reduce swelling in areas of the nose. In addition, sleep reduces pain and discomfort while helping prevent infection from developing in places stitched during surgery.
Common Side Effects of Rhinoplasty
Inflammation often occurs after surgery because of swelling caused by the procedure or anesthesia. While bruises around the nose may extend under the eyes, this is one of the body’s natural responses to trauma after a rhinoplasty procedure.
If you experience these symptoms after your procedure, talk with your doctor about how to manage them safely and effectively so that they don’t interfere with your recovery process.
How Can I Get a Good Night’s Sleep After a Rhinoplasty?
The first step to getting a good night’s sleep after rhinoplasty surgery is to ensure that you practice your new sleeping position before the procedure. You will want to try out different positions until you find one that works well for your body and helps give you back the feeling of comfort in bed.
To prevent pressure on your nose, sleeping on your side or stomach for several days after the procedure is not advisable. Resting your back in an elevated position using pillows and blankets reduces congestion and minimizes swelling after rhinoplasty surgery. Also, avoid having any pets present in your sleeping area to prevent accidental injury to the nose.
However, after a week post-op, you can return to sleeping on your back or side while ensuring that you do not put pressure on your nose. Try not to take any medication before bed because it may interfere with the healing process during the recovery period and lead to postoperative complications.
Tips for a Good Night’s Sleep After Rhinoplasty
Getting quality sleep after Rhinoplasty is essential to your recovery process. Below are some tips to ensure you get a good night’s sleep:
- Sleeping With Your Head Elevated: Sleeping with your head minimizes swelling and promotes circulation. You can do this with 2-3 pillows or an adjustable recliner.
- Sleeping on Your Back: During your recovery, it is essential to sleep on your back because your nose is delicate post-op, and sleeping in the wrong position can cause discomfort and compromise your recovery process and result.
- Sleeping on Your Side: Avoid sleeping during the first week following your nose surgery. This measure will prevent the outcome of your surgery from being negatively impacted by the displacement of your nasal bones.
- Caffeine-Free Days: Ensure not to use alcohol or caffeine-containing products within 1 hour before sleep because they can make it more difficult for you to fall asleep quickly.
Get Enough Sleep Today
Getting adequate sleep is one of the best ways to recover after rhinoplasty surgery. Your body needs to heal, and rest helps make that happen. Therefore, following your surgeon’s tips and instructions is essential to recovery.
Ensure to avoid overexerting yourself in the first few days post-surgery. You must rest and be as comfortable as possible during this time. Avoid engaging in strenuous activity for at least one week after your surgery. Take frequent breaks when working out; this will reduce swelling in your face area, making it easier for you to breathe normally again.
