Question:
How can you Minimize Bruising and Swelling after Nose Surgery?
Answer:
Minimizing Bruising and Swelling after Rhinoplasty
Are you worried about the recovery process following your rhinoplasty procedure? Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure, and it does come with a recovery time and side effects. It takes time for the tissues to heal from the procedure. Some factors that contribute to bruising may be outside your control. Patients of more advanced age typically have weaker blood vessels, which may rupture a little more easily, and some people just have a tendency towards more bleeding than others. However, there are things you can do to make sure that your recovery process is as quick and painless as possible.
Choose the Right Surgeon
The skill of your surgeon can be a contributing factor. An experienced surgeon can perform a surgery with less bleeding, which in turn means less bruising and swelling after the procedure. Find a surgeon with a good amount of experience and good results. Make sure you discuss your recovery with your surgeon, and that you understand what your surgeon feels is a normal or expected recovery.
Following your surgeon’s instructions is essential. >Before surgery, it will be important to stop taking any medications that contribute to bleeding, such as aspirin, and remain off them for some time after your operation. After the procedure, you will also be encouraged to use cold compresses to help prevent excessive bruising and swelling. You will also need to keep your head elevated, including while you are sleeping, as this also helps decrease swelling.
Supplementing the Recovery Process
There are some homeopathic remedies that can help as well. Pineapple juice contains bromelain, which can be beneficial. Another helpful supplement is arnica as it helps to limit bruising. There are some herbal supplements that can actually have the opposite effect, and must be discontinued before surgery just like aspirin. These include St. John’s wort, vitamin E, and ginko. Your surgeon should give you a list of substances to be avoided.
Of course, none of these remedies will completely erase bruising and swelling. Keep in mind that some amount of bruising and swelling is completely normal and should not be alarming. Your comfort and happiness depends on your full understanding of what to expect, as well as you taking control of what you can to minimize the bruising and swelling you experience during your recovery.
Ask Dr. Becker a question or arrange an appointment for a nose surgery consultation by calling 856-589-NOSE (6673).