Rhinoplasty Post-Operative Instructions
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WHAT TO EXPECT
Your surgery will be performed as outpatient. You will awaken with a splint over the nose and pad under the nose. You may have nasal packing in place. You can expect some drainage on the pad and some to the throat.
There may be mild to moderate pain.
Do not take your pain medication on an empty stomach. Eat a light snack, such as crackers, about 30 minutes before your take your pain medication. You may have bruising around the eyes.
WHAT TO DO
Plan on resting the day of surgery with your head elevated as in a recliner. Sleep with your head elevated by placing a few pillow behind your back and head. You have comfortable gentle elevation with your head above your heart.
Change the pad under the nose as needed. When the pad remains dry, you may remove it.
The splint on the outside of your nose will be removed at your first post-op visit (five days). Any splints and/or packing inside your nose will be removed at that time as well.
Apply antibiotic ointment (Polysporin, Neosporin, Bacitracin) to the incision under your nose with a cotton swab three to four times daily.
A cool gauze soaked in ice water may be applied to the cheeks. You can use these cool compresses for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off as needed. Do not put ice directly on your skin. You could have numbness to the area, and direct ice can damage the skin.
Do not shower until after your first post-op visit. You may tub bathe, being careful to not get splint wet.
Eat if you are hungry. Drinking clear liquids is very important.
Pain medication and general anesthesia can cause constipation. It is helpful to start on a stool softener, such as Colace, a few days before surgery. If constipation is a problem after surgery, you may use a glycerin suppository or Fleet enema.
WHEN TO CALL
If you have excessive pain or increased bloody drainage – call our office.
If you run a fever, or have chills – call our office.
If you have persistent nausea or vomiting – call our office.
If you are uncertain about a medication or treatment – call our office.
If you are experiencing any adverse symptoms or changes that you do not understand – call our office.