Rhinoplasty Surgery Recovery: How Should Skin Care be Performed?

Knowing What to Expect When Recovering from Rhinoplasty Surgery

During the first week of your rhinoplasty recovery, you’ll have a splint on your nose and a dressing covering it. Leave everything in place unless otherwise directed by your surgeon. Once the splint and dressing come off, you may notice that your nose is somewhat oily, and as time passes, the skin may also peel a bit. In addition, your skin may itch before and after the dressing and splint are removed. It’s very important to avoid scratching your nose. To relieve discomfort, gently apply a cold compress to the area but avoid the incision.

Choosing Skin Care Products

Ahead of your rhinoplasty, make sure you have very gentle, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free skin care products available. For example, you’ll want a mild cleanser and fragrance-free moisturizer. It’s also a good idea to have skin wipes on hand. Alternatively, you can use micellar water, cotton balls, or a reusable cotton pad.

Cleansing Your Face

While your dressing is in place, you won’t be able to splash water on your face. Instead, soak the cotton balls or pad in micellar water to gently cleanse the skin around your nose, taking care to avoid the bandages. Face wipes will also work, but again, use gentle pressure.

After your bandages are removed, you can carefully splash water on your face again. Avoid putting any pressure on your nose. In addition, use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser, preferably one that is water-based–your skin will be sensitive for a while. Finally, use a very light touch to apply moisturizer.

Avoiding Sun Exposure

During the first few weeks of your rhinoplasty surgery recovery, avoid or limit sun exposure. Your skin will be particularly sensitive to UV rays. When you do go out, use non-comedogenic sunscreen.

Schedule a Rhinoplasty Surgery Consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Rhinoplasties are among the most complicated plastic surgeries to perform. So it’s essential to choose your plastic surgeon carefully. That’s why so many people go to the Manhattan office of Dr. Thomas Loeb, a board-certified plastic surgeon with a lengthy track record of successful procedures and happy patients. Schedule a rhinoplasty surgery consultation with Dr. Loeb today and find out if a rhinoplasty could be right for you.