Patients recovering from nose surgery (rhinoplasty) are often confused about the conflicting aftercare directions they find online. Restrictions on things such as flying, exercising, and returning to work may vary from one provider to another. Of the recovery practices that seem to be subject to a significant amount of debate, massaging the nose after surgery is near the top of the list.
How to Massage Your Nose After Rhinoplasty
As a rule, you should always follow the directions that your surgeon gives you. Dr. Ronald Schuster, a board-certified plastic surgeon and experienced rhinoplasty provider in Baltimore, recommends nasal massage to his rhinoplasty patients because it effectively decreases swelling. It will not cause damage or negatively impact your results if performed properly and within the appropriate timeline following your surgery. Dr. Schuster usually has patients begin massage three weeks after surgery, not before.
There are three different techniques you can use to massage your nose.
- First, you can gently run your fingers down along each side of your nose, moving from the top to the bottom.
- Second, you can place two fingers above the tip of your nose and move them down along the sides. Alternatively, you can hold one of those fingers in place while gently moving the other finger closer to it.
- Lastly, you can use your thumb to stabilize the area between your nostrils and press above the tip of your nose with your pointer finger. You should not press on the actual tip of your nose.
Dr. Schuster will gladly demonstrate these techniques during your appointment. Here is also a video demonstration by Dr. Schuster.
Can I Press My Nose After Rhinoplasty?
During the initial one to three weeks following surgery, your nose will be particularly vulnerable to touch or movement. It typically takes about six to eight weeks for your nose to fully recover and regain its pre-procedure strength.
Immediately following rhinoplasty surgery, it is important to refrain from any contact with your nose, such as touching, pushing, or poking, for a minimum of one to two weeks. It’s also important to refrain from applying any pressure to your nose during this time.
What Happens If I Put Pressure on My Nose After Rhinoplasty?
After rhinoplasty, it is typical to experience some nasal swelling and inflammation. The majority of the swelling should subside within three to four weeks. You may also experience temporary discomfort, headaches, and nasal congestion for a short period of time. Nevertheless, it is crucial to resist the urge to apply pressure on your nose during this time. It is also important for you to refrain from forcefully blowing your nose for a few weeks after surgery to prevent any potential bleeding.
Touching the affected area too much can hinder the healing process of tissues and have a negative effect on your final results. Be mindful to avoid any form of physical contact that may potentially interfere with the alignment of the cartilage or bone, as this could reverse the progress made. Make sure to touch or massage your nose only as directed by Dr. Schuster.
How Long After Rhinoplasty Should I Massage My Nose?
Special massage techniques, as directed by Dr. Schuster, can help reduce swelling and enhance muscle flexibility around two weeks after your rhinoplasty procedure. Waiting to massage your nose after rhinoplasty allows the tissues and bones to heal properly and stabilize.
After two weeks, gently massaging your nose for two minutes in the morning and two minutes in the evening can help speed up the recovery process.
Should I Tape My Nose?
The use of taping is used occaisionally to help reduce swelling. In general Dr. Schuster prefers massage over taping.
It can be beneficial to tape your nose for a few months after your surgery as part of the aftercare process. The primary objective of taping is to promote the skin’s natural tendency to conform to the underlying bone and cartilage. Taping can be effective in reducing swelling and shrinking the skin.
However, failing to follow the nose-taping process as directed may result in:
- Nose deformity
- Extended healing time
- Additional complications
For the correct nose-taping patterns and procedures, please consult with Dr. Schuster.
How Long Should I Keep Taping My Nose After Rhinoplasty?
After rhinoplasty, you might be advised to tape your nose for 1–3 months. For optimal results, it is typically best to apply tape to your nose before going to sleep and then remove it in the morning. Many individuals opt to forgo using tape during the day to allow their skin to breathe.
The recovery period for rhinoplasty typically takes around one year to fully complete. After that, you should not be experiencing any swelling, bruising, discomfort, redness, or pain.
Additional Ways to Reduce Swelling After Nose Surgery
Massage is just one of the effective ways to reduce swelling after nose surgery. It can help shorten your total recovery time and allow you to see results sooner. Other measures include:
- Keeping your head elevated
- Applying a cold compress as directed
- Avoiding sneezing and coughing
- Drinking plenty of water
- Avoiding alcohol, smoking, drugs, and certain herbal supplements
- Avoiding eyewear, including sunglasses and prescription glasses
- Avoiding strenuous exercise and physical activity
Can I Wear Glasses or Sunglasses After Rhinoplasty?
Dr. Schuster will provide you with a splint that can be worn to protect the nose during the first six weeks after surgery. However, extra care must be taken when wearing glasses over your bandages and splint. Patients have to be particularly careful as glasses have the potential to move things and change what was done during surgery.
If you need to wear your prescription eyewear during this period of recovery, you can try positioning and securing them so that they don’t rest on your nose. Alternatively, you may also consider using contact lenses at this time. Other options for sun protection instead of sunglasses may also include protective headwear, such as sun visors or wide-brimmed hats.
Once Dr. Schuster confirms that your nose has fully healed, you can resume wearing your glasses as usual.
Schedule a Rhinoplasty Consultation in Baltimore, MD
If you are considering rhinoplasty, you deserve a surgeon with the skill and experience to recommend specific aftercare measures that promote proper healing.
Dr. Ronald H. Schuster, a highly skilled plastic surgeon, is renowned for his expertise in performing various procedures. With his extensive experience and board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, he is a trusted professional in the field, ensuring that patients receive only the highest level of care. Additionally, he serves as the Chief of the Plastic Surgery Division at Northwest Hospital Center in Baltimore County, Maryland.
With extensive training and experience in multiple areas of plastic surgery, Dr. Schuster specializes in procedures like rhinoplasty. Additionally, he offers a non-surgical rhinoplasty procedure using dermal fillers for those seeking alternative options.
Call 410-902-9800 today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Schuster. He serves patients from Baltimore, Lutherville-Timonium, and the surrounding areas of Maryland.
