It is understandable to want to see the results of rhinoplasty as soon as possible. Recovery does take time, so it would be best to be patient. However, there are a few things you could do when recovering from rhinoplasty to speed up the process and ensure everything goes as expected.

Do Not Take Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Because some swelling is common in procedures such as these, some people take anti-inflammatory medications to reduce the swelling. This is a bad idea because anti-inflammatory medications have been shown to dilate blood vessels around the area, which will cause more swelling or even bleeding. Both of these things will undoubtedly increase your recovery time.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a balanced diet gives your body the nutrients it needs to heal after surgery. Proteins are especially important as you recover because they are the building blocks our bodies need. Protein-rich foods will help your body  repair and regain damaged tissues.

It is also important to increase your vitamin intake as vitamins can help prevent infections post-surgery.

Listen to Your Doctor

Your doctor might have done everything they could to minimize risks of rhinoplasty during the procedure, but they will still play an important role in your recovery. They will give you instructions on what medications to use if you need any, as well as advice on how to take care of the site of the procedure. They will also let you know when you need to come in for a follow-up. Please follow their instructions if you want to recover the right way.

Use Cold to Aid Recovery

It is common to have some swelling around the eyes, nose, and cheek area. Using a cold object can help alleviate swelling, give you some immediate relief and help with your recovery. It is not advisable to use an ice pack directly on the face, as that could lead to burns. Instead, wrap a cloth around the ice pack and apply that to the swollen areas. If you do not have an ice pack, a bag of peas works as well.

The cold causes your blood vessels to constrict, which reduces swelling and redness around the surgery site.

Take Things Easy

You may have a busy life, but you need to take things easy the first seven to ten days. This means avoiding activities like sports and strenuous exercises. Any of these things increases the risk of bumping your nose against something, which would call for another visit to the doctor’s office.

Rest is also very important to give your body time to recover. Although you may find it hard to fall asleep, try as much as you can to do so. Your body takes the time you are resting to heal and recover, so give it as much time as possible to do so.

Recovering from rhinoplasty, or any type of plastic surgery calls for patience and changing some of the things you used to do before the surgery. Eating a healthy diet remains the best way to give your body everything it needs to recover from surgery. Also, take things easy and rest as much as you can.