Swelling, bleeding and bruising are very common while recovering from rhinoplasty. Most of these effects will subside after a few weeks but there are some tips to avoid prolonging these side effects. Here are some tips for minimizing swelling, bleeding and bruising during your recovery.

• Maintain your head above your heart at all times. An upright position decreases blood pressure and swelling in the face. Sleep with the head of your bed elevated for a week.

• Apply cold compresses to the cheeks, under-eyes, and forehead (but keep the nasal bandage dry).

• Avoid straining, lifting, and exertion.

• Avoid anything (physical or emotional) that may lead to a rise in your blood pressure or heart rate.

• Do not attempt to remove blood clots or anything else from the nostrils. Avoid rubbing the nostrils and the base of the nose. 

• Do not take any blood-thinning medications or vitamins.

• Don't blow the nose at all for ten days. After that, blow through both sides at once. Do not compress one side.

• Stay hydrated to improve blood circulation.
  

• If you have to sneeze, do so with your mouth open.

Visit our rhinoplasty page for more details about rhinoplasty surgery and recovery. Interested in a consultation for a procedure by Dr. Anand Patel at Visage Facial Plastic Surgery? Click here to schedule today.