Activity and Sex after rhinoplasty
During the second week the nose must not be bumped, (elbows, doors, etc.). Though the bones are firmly healing in place, even a slight blow could cause movement. Avoid any situation where a potential for ‘ nasal trauma exists. Exercise which increases the heart rate can begin at 14 days post-up. Exercise or sex during the first week post-up can cause bleeding. During the second week post-up it will increase edema or swelling. At 14 days, you can begin fast walking and light weights. At 21 days, you can begin running and heavier weighty. At 30 days, full exercise can begin. A frequent question is “…when can sexual activity resume…” As a moderately exertional activity (caloric expenditure), sexual activity can safely be resumed at 12-14 days following facial plastic surgery.
. Wearing Glasses: You should not wear glasses for about one month. If glasses must be worn, taping the central bridge of the glasses to the forehead will allow as little pressure as possible on the nasal bones.
Sun Exposure: It is wise not to sunbathe for about 60 days. A sunburn will cause the nose to swell and delay the final result. Walking about between sun and shade or sitting with a hat, is permitted. It is always best to apply a waterproof factor 25 sunblock to the nose if strong sun exposure is anticipated.
. The nasal skin is somewhat insensitive following rhinoplasty. This can be appreciated by touching the skin which will seem slightly – numb. Full sensation always returns in three months time; the tip regains full sensation last. The advice concerning sun exposure also applies to the winter cold. It is possible to experience frost-bite if exposed for long periods to sub-freezing weather during activities such as skiing. Both sun and the winter cold are natural enemies to the skin and prolong the usual post-up course.
. Skin: A natural reaction of all types of nasal skin to this surgery is a pronounced increase in nasal oiliness. Even skin that is usually dry will need to be wiped with an astringent on a cotton pad once or twice a day for two weeks or more. Another universal observation is the presence of flaking or peeling of the skin, much like that caused by sunburn. This also abates in about two weeks. Most discoloration is resolved in 7-10 days. However, though unusual, this may persist longer as pigmentation beneath the eyes. Occasionally, olive-skinned patients may retain this pigment for several months.
. Small irregularities may be felt below the smooth skin, especially over the nasal bones. These irregularities are common. Most noses, even without surgery, have palpable bone irregularity beneath smooth skin.
Out of Town Patients: You must remain in the Phoenix metropolitan area for at least one week following surgery.
. Friends and Family: Whether you are contemplating or have decided to undergo plastic surgery, be prepared to hear all manner of stories and judgments friends from friends and relatives. If you ask an opinion about your surgery, most people: will not be supportive. Many will have some tale of difficulty to tell you; it is an unfortunate fact of human nature. Occasionally, relatives and friends who are told you have made a definite decision about facial surgery are more supportive. After surgery, almost everyone will forget their negative statements. They will admire the results and see, for the first time, what you were talking about.
. Improvement not Perfection: Observe, in yourself and in those around you, that the two sides of the human body are not the same. Aesthetic surgery can never make them exactly the same. Our purpose and goal in facial aesthetic surgery is improvement and not perfection.
Additional Information:
. Slight elevation of temperature immediately following surgery is not uncommon. If the temperature persists, notify the office. Tylenol should be taken to reduce the fever.
. In the event of nausea and/or vomiting following surgery, do not take anything by mouth for at least an hour including the prescribed medicine. You should then sip on flat coke, tea, or ginger ale. You can also purchase coke syrup over the counter which can have a soothing effect on the stomach. You should sip slowly over a fifteen-minute period. When the nausea subsides you can begin taking solid foods and the prescribed medicine. Please call if the nausea does not subside within 3 hours. There are medications we can call in to your pharmacy that work very well to control nausea and vomiting.
. If you have been placed on antibiotics, take the tablets or liquid as directed. Make sure you finish the antibiotic even if you feel like you are completely better and do not need it. Discontinue antibiotic use in the event of a rash or other unfavorable reaction, and notify the office of the reaction. Sometimes taking antibiotics with yogurt can help prevent diarrhea. If you take birth control pills, the birth control may become ineffective; use back up form of birth control.
. Do not drive an automobile or work around machinery until you are no longer taking any narcotic pain medications. Avoid alcoholic beverages as they will enhance the effect of the narcotic. This is a dangerous combination. Pain or discomfort following surgery should begin to subside after the first two to three days. If pain persists, it may require attention and you should call the office. Do not routinely take Tylenol with prescription pain medications. Many prescription pain medications already contain Tylenol.
. Your case is individual as no two people are alike. Do not accept well intended advice from friends. Discuss your questions and concerns with our Doctors.
. You should wear clothing that fastens either in the front or at the back rather than the type that must be pulled over the head for one week.
. It is not uncommon to have some mild post-operative depression. Most patients are shocked when they see their face swollen and, perhaps, discolored. Be realistic and realize that this is a very temporary condition which will subside shortly. The best “treatment” consists of busying one’s self with the details of post-operative care and trying to divert one’s attention to other thoughts. Just relax and rest and let your face heal.
. Do not smoke for at least 2 weeks post operatively as smoking significantly delays healing and increases the risk of complications.