NOSE RESHAPING - POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

NORMAL SYMPTOMS

q      You will have a splint taped to your nose; bruising and swelling are to be expected.

q      You will also have packing inside of your nose.  This will be removed on your first post-operative visit. 

q      Keep ice packs on your eyes for the first 12 hours after surgery.  Make sure that you do not get the tape or splint wet.

q     You will also have a gauze “drip” pad taped under your nose.  Change this pad as needed.     

SLEEPING

q      Sleep on your back with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows for several weeks after surgery.  This will help to reduce your swelling.

BATHING

q You may take a bath 48 hours after your surgery.  Do not shower – you do not want to get your tape or splint wet.

q      You may wash your hair by leaning backwards over the sink.  Put a towel over your face and have someone help you.

q      You may gently wash your face with warm water – again, making sure not get your tape or splint wet.

HYGIENE

q      Once the packing is removed, wait 2 days, and then you may begin irrigating your nose several times per day with Ocean Spray or AYR spray.

q     Do not sniff or blow through your nose for three weeks following surgery.

APPEARANCE

q      Your splint will be removed 7-10 days following surgery.  After that time, you will wear small strips of brown tape on the nose to prevent residual swelling and scar tissue build up.  You may need to wear this tape up to 3 months following surgery.

q      Do not wear any glasses on your nose until your doctor tells you that it is ok.  Our staff can instruct you as to how you can appropriately tape your glasses for use.

q      Avoid direct sun on the nose for two months following surgery.  Use a sunblock of at least SPF 15 or Zinc Oxide.

ACTIVITY

q      Stay quiet and as relaxed as possible; you may get up to move around the house, but no bending over, lifting or moving heavy objects for the first 10 days after surgery.  Usually you may begin light exercise approximately three to four weeks after surgery.  Jogging, bike riding, weight lifting, aerobics and other more strenuous activities should be avoided for at least four weeks.  No contact sports for at least 3 months following surgery.

DRIVING

q      You can drive when you are no longer taking pain medication.