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Rhinoplasty
Please read and familiarize yourself with these instructions both before and after surgery. By following them carefully, you will assist us in obtaining the best possible result from your surgery. If questions arise, do not hesitate to communicate with us and discuss your questions at any time.
BEFORE THE OPERATION
1)Please refer to the list of medications not to take before surgery. It is important that you stop taking any medications on this list at the specified times.
2) If you smoke, please stop at least one week before and continue not to smoke until one week after your operation. Smoking delays wound healing and can lead to scar formation.
3)Please wash your face the night before and the morning of surgery. Do not wear any make-up the day of surgery. It is important that your face be clean prior to the procedure.
4)Do not wear any clothing that you will need to pull over your head (ie. pullover sweaters, t-shirts, or turtlenecks). Please wear shirts or blouses that button down in the front. You should continue to do this during the first week after surgery as well.
5)Please arrange for a companion to drive you home after surgery.
AFTER THE OPERATION
1)Do not blow your nose until instructed. Wipe or dab nose gently with tissues, if necessary.
2)You may change the dressing under the nose (if present) as needed.
3)The nasal splint on top of the nose must remain until removed by your doctor. Do not disturb it, keep it dry.
4)Avoid extreme physical activity. Obtain more rest than usual and avoid athletic activities and sexual intercourse for one week. Please remember that the nose is being held in the correct location only by the nasal cast, and any bumping of the nose during the first month can drastically impact its position and final appearance.
5)You may wash your face, but carefully avoid the dressing. Take tub baths until the dressings are removed.
6)Do not swim for two weeks.
7)It is normal for there to be some swelling around the eyes and nose, as well as some discoloration. This usually clears within two to three weeks. In rare instances, some patients may require up to six months for all signs of swelling to resolve.
8)Do not wear glasses of any sort until you are told by your doctor it is okay. You may tape the glasses to your forehead if you wish, but there should be no contact with the nose or dressings.
9)After removing the splint dressing, the skin may be gently cleansed with a mild soap or skin lotion. Make-up may be worn after bandages are removed. Use a hypoallergenic formula.
10)Take prescribed medications as directed. Pain medication is to be taken one tablet every four hours as needed for pain. Pain medication can be constipating, so you should take a stool softener and avoid constipating foods as necessary. Take the antibiotic medication as directed until you have finished the bottle. All medications should be taken with food to avoid upsetting your stomach.
11)Please minimize sun exposure for the next two months. Sun exposure can cause color changes and poor healing. Wear a large brim hat if you need to go outdoors. After the first two weeks, sunblock SPF 30 or greater may be worn.
12)For concerns or problems such as bleeding, pain, fever, or inadvertent removal of nasal splint, or to clarify follow-up appointment, notify the office at (510) 675-4454 Monday-Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. If you experience complications after office hours,please contact the emergency room.
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