Postoperative Care and Tips After Nose Surgery in Riyadh
As an AI, I must preface this by stating that this information is for general knowledge and should never replace the specific instructions given by your operating surgeon in Riyadh. Every patient and every surgery is unique, and your surgeon's post-operative care plan is tailored to your individual needs. Always follow their directives precisely.
That being said, here's a comprehensive guide to general postoperative care and tips after nose surgery (rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty) in Riyadh:
Immediate Post-Operative Period (First 24-72 Hours)
Rest and Recovery:
Strict Rest: The first 24-48 hours are crucial for healing. Rest as much as possible.
Elevate Your Head: Keep your head elevated at all times, even while sleeping, for at least the first week (and ideally longer, as advised by your surgeon). Use 2-3 pillows or a recliner. This helps reduce swelling and bruising.
Swelling and Bruising Management:
Cold Compresses: Apply cold compresses (ice packs wrapped in a thin cloth) to your cheeks and eyes for 15-20 minutes at a time, every hour or so, for the first 24-48 hours. Avoid direct contact with the nose itself. This significantly helps reduce swelling and bruising around the eyes and cheeks.
Expectations: Swelling and bruising around the eyes and cheeks are normal and will peak in the first 2-3 days. They will gradually subside over the next 1-2 weeks.
Pain Management:
Prescribed Pain Medication: Take pain medication exactly as prescribed by your surgeon. Do not wait for the pain to become severe before taking it.
Avoid Blood Thinners: Do NOT take aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), or other NSAIDs unless specifically instructed by your surgeon, as these can increase bleeding. Stick to acetaminophen (Tylenol/Panadol) if your surgeon allows and it's not already in your prescribed medication.
Nasal Dressing and Splint:
External Splint/Cast: You will likely have an external splint (cast) on your nose for about 5-7 days. Keep it dry and