Preparing You For Your Rhinoplasty Procedure

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by Dr. Steven Wallach

Rhinoplasty, often referred to as a nose job, changes the size and shape of the nose to make it more aesthetically pleasing. Beyond aesthetic reasons, some people also need rhinoplasty to correct abnormalities that prevent them from breathing effectively, such as deviated septums. If you are scheduled for rhinoplasty, knowing how to prepare is essential.

Preparing a Week Before Your Procedure

Once you have gone through the consultation and are scheduled for surgery, there are things you must complete the week before. Preparation will help to ensure your surgery proceeds as expected.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Your body requires energy to heal from surgery, and getting lots of rest the week before will help prepare it for the recovery process. Being well-rested means more effective healing.

Stay Hydrated

Most people do not consume enough water, leading to chronic dehydration. Drink more water than usual in the week leading up to your rhinoplasty procedure. It is essential to keep your body well-hydrated before and after surgery to aid in the healing process.

Make Arrangements

Because you will be under general anesthesia for the surgery, you cannot drive yourself home. Plan who will drive you home and ensure there is a responsible adult to care for you for the first 24 hours. Consider having easy-to-make meals available for your recovery as well.

Fill Your Prescriptions

Fill your prescription for pain medications and antibiotics (if applicable) before the surgery. Consider purchasing any necessary supplies, including gauze, pillows, and a cold compress ahead of time.

Avoid Certain Medications

Some medications need to be avoided before surgery. These include aspirin, ibuprofen, other NSAIDs, and vitamin E. You’ll be instructed to stop taking these two weeks before surgery.

Quit Smoking

If you’re a smoker, you will need to quit at least two weeks before surgery. Smoking can affect the healing process and can lead to scarring. 

Avoid Sun Damage

You’ll need to avoid excess sun exposure as much as possible at least two weeks before rhinoplasty surgery. Wear at least an SPF 30 or more to protect yourself against the sun.

Preparing the Day Before Surgery

Preparation the day before surgery will help ensure you are ready to face your rhinoplasty surgery and recovery without stress. You will come home from the procedure and be able to rest as you recover at home.

Do Not Eat After Midnight

Dr. Wallach will instruct you on when to stop eating, but generally, will want to stop eating or drinking after midnight before your surgery. Fasting will help prevent nausea, vomiting, and dangerous aspiration during surgery.

Do Not Wear Makeup or Jewelry

Do not wear makeup on the day of surgery because it can irritate the skin and present a non-sterile environment. You should also remove all jewelry. Dr. Wallach will give you complete instructions on what to do and what not to do before your rhinoplasty.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

You will wear a surgical gown for your procedure, but you should have comfortable clothes to go home in after. Wear a soft shirt with buttons so you do not have to slip it over your sensitive nose.

What to Expect the Day of Surgery

On the day of surgery, you won’t want to eat or drink anything beforehand. You can take a sip of water for necessary medications, but nothing beyond that. Since you are being put under general anesthesia, we want to make sure your stomach is empty to avoid aspiration and vomiting.

Once you arrive, we’ll check you in, make you as comfortable as possible, and prepare you for surgery. 

What to Expect After Rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty surgery, your friend or family member will drive you home, and you’ll need to rest as much as possible. You’ll also want to follow all the post-op instructions Dr. Wallach provides. These  will include:

• Changing the dressing under your nose until any drainage stops
• Avoid blowing your nose for three weeks. If you have to sneeze, do so with your mouth open.
• Use saline nasal spray to keep the inside of your nose moist. It will help with healing and make you much more comfortable.
• Keep your head elevated for the first 48 hours to help with swelling. You’ll want to sleep in a recliner or with extra pillows behind your head.
• Avoid excessive facial movements for one week.
• Brush your teeth gently with a soft toothbrush. Even this level of movement could cause issues with your nose.
• Avoid strenuous activities to prevent excess bleeding and swelling.
• Avoid excess sun exposure and tanning beds for six weeks after surgery
• Makeup can be worn once your cast is removed.
• Avoid smoking for at least two to four weeks after surgery.

You may experience some numbness around your upper lip, but that should subside as you heal. Additionally, you can expect some swelling and discoloration around the eyes. Dipping gauze pads in ice water and applying them to your eyes (not ice packs) can help lessen those issues. 

Your nasal cast will be removed five to seven days after surgery during your follow-up appointment. Any stitches that were placed will also be removed at the same follow-up appointment. Before that, keep the cast dry and avoid it when washing your face.

If you wear glasses, you will need to avoid wearing them for at least six weeks. Once the cast is removed, we will show you how to wear your glasses so they won’t affect your rhinoplasty results.

Schedule a Consultation Appointment

Are you ready to transform your nose with natural-looking results? Rhinoplasty can give your nose the look you have always wanted. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Wallach by calling our New York City office or using our online contact form.