Rhinoplasty (nose job) is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures, not to mention most recovery-intensive, at least during the first few weeks following the operation.
The purpose of the rhinoplasty is to mold a patient’s nose to a specified size and shape. The procedure often involves extensive bone and tissue cutting. The end result? Black eyes, major facial swelling, bruising, and a bleeding nose.
Recovering From Rhinoplasty the Right Way
All of this will eventually subside. For better recovery, patients are advised to take extreme precautions during the first weeks. If you are planning on or have a scheduled nose job in the near future, you’re probably wondering what to expect as far as post-operative care is concerned.
In particular, many patients ask how to clean their nose. It is important to know this as you obviously won’t be able to wash your face as you normally would for quite some time. Doctors take different opinions as to what method is ideal. Some argue for the effectiveness of Neti pots and similar nasal drainage devices.
These products can certainly clear blocked nasal passages and provide patients with congestion relief. But the team at Solomon Facial Plastic is a firm believer in the use of syringes for keeping your nose clean after rhinoplasty surgery.
An Ideal Approach to Nose Cleaning
Whereas Neti pots work by inducing nasal circulation (the fluid goes in one nostril and out the other), this is an ill-advised approach by many seasoned plastic surgeons. You do not want to circulate any fluid through your nose during the first three weeks after the procedure. This can cause potential complications and negative side effects.
Nasal drops are therefore the best course of action for cleaning your post-rhinoplasty nose. The reason being the fluid is isolated in the individual nostril.
You can quickly create your own nasal isotonic solution with just a couple ingredients. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add salt to the water (½ teaspoon per 8 oz. glass). Afterwards, use a syringe to inject the solution once it has cooled to a safe temperature. Lean over your sink and insert the liquid upward into your nostril. Remember to keep the syringe just at the base of your nose.
If you have additional questions or concerns about your upcoming appointment or consultation, please feel free to call the staff at Solomon Facial Plastic, today.
Feb 29th 2016