Post op rhinoplasty - what to expect and what to do
You’ve had your rhinoplasty—now what? The post-operative period is one of the most important parts of the rhinoplasty journey, and it’s also when patients often have the most questions. In this episode, Dr Dan takes you through what to expect after surgery, from waking up in recovery and managing pain and congestion, through to your first post-operative appointment and the months that follow. He explains the importance of pain relief, saline nasal washes, medications and proper wound care, as well as when patients can return to exercise and other activities. Dr Dan also discusses common concerns during recovery, including nasal congestion, unpleasant smells, dissolving sutures, nose taping and differential swelling. 🔎 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • What to expect immediately after waking up from rhinoplasty surgery. • Why Dr Dan does not routinely use nasal packing. • Why staying on top of your pain relief is important during early recovery. • How and when to use saline nasal washes. • The role of antibiotics, steroids and Clorsig ointment after surgery. • How to sleep comfortably during the first week. • What to expect between day 2 and your first post-operative appointment. • What happens when your external and internal splints are removed. • When you can safely return to exercise. • What is normal during the first 8–10 weeks after surgery. • What to do if you notice an unpleasant smell inside your nose. • Dr Dan’s approach to nose taping. • When you can return to Botox, laser and heavy microdermabrasion. • When steroid injections may be considered. • How nasal massage may help manage areas of differential swelling.