Sleeping on side after rhinoplasty

How to sleep after rhinoplasty?

Any surgery is painful and finding a suitable sleeping position  one that won’t affect the surgical area  is integral to the healing process.

Post-operative care is very important and sleep is essential to a healthy immune system and quick recovery. Your body must work extra hard after surgery, so it is normal to feel fatigued during the first few days post-op. After the rhinoplasty you need to rest in bed with your head raised higher than your chest, some may need to continue sleeping on their back for a few weeks after that. During your recovery, your nose will be delicate and malleable, so it is important not to sleep on your stomach or side, which can put pressure on your nose. This will not only cause discomfort but may also compromise your results. All patients should sleep on their backs with the head elevated for at least a week to minimize swelling. 

After Rhinoplasty you may find getting a good night’s sleep more difficult than usual. Here are some ways your sleep may be affected, and some solutions to help you increase your comfort:

Elevate

Before your surgery, make up your bed with extra, comfortable pillows that you can use to prop your head up slightly while you sleep. This slight bit of elevation will go a long way in helping to bring your swelling down. And less swelling, of course, means less discomfort.

You can use airline type pillow for comfort.  also popular is the common pillow called a “husband.”  This is the large pillow that has extensions that go under the arms and supports the patient.

Cutting out caffeine

Coffee, or caffeinated drinks like tea and coke, is a big part of many people’s lives. However, during recovery, cutting out caffeine can help you get a restful, rejuvenating sleep. Consider replacing coffee with herbal tea, or decaf.

Check your Meds

Follow your surgeon’s prescription, and the labels. Pain will definitely make it harder for you to sleep, so these medications can really help you get your rest.

Full rhinoplasty recovery can take about a year, however most of the bruising and swelling should be gone by the end of the second week, meaning you will feel more comfortable and sleep shouldn’t be an issue.