What happens following Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)?
Keep head elevated. Use nasal spray to keep passages moist. A guaze taped to the upper lip will help to catch any drainage. The packing in the nose is removed the day following the surgery. The splint inside the nose is removed at 7-10 days following the surgery. The splint outside the nose is removed at 10-14 days following the surgery. The sutures at the tip are removed in 4-7 days. The inside sutures dissolve by themselves. Patients may resume gentle activity after the procedure and avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 2-3 weeks following the procedure. The bruising or swelling will subside over 10-14 days. Complete resolution of edema will take a longer time. NSAIDS (Ibuprofen, Advil, Alleve, Motrin) may be taken following the procedure. Antibiotics are taken while the packing is in the nose. Nasal spray will help to keep the mucosa moist.
