Post Operative Instructions

Please read and familiarize yourself with these instructions before and after surgery.  By following them carefully you will assist in obtaining the best result from your surgery.  If questions arise, do not hesitate to communicate with the doctor or Wendy Lane to discuss your questions at any time.
 

1. For 48 hours after surgery, sit up or walk during the days and at night sleep with your head elevated with 2 or 3 pillows.
2. For 48 hours after surgery, use ice compresses as provided by the nurses at the surgical facility.
3. Avoid lifting or bending.
4. Avoid foods that require prolonged chewing.  Otherwise, your diet has no restrictions.
5. Avoid excessive or prolonged telephone conversations and social activities for at least 10-14 days.
6. Avoid smiling, grining and excess facial movements for one week.
7. Do not wash hair for one week unless you have someone do it for you.  If you have a nasal cast, keep it dry.
8. Do not squeeze or pluck eyebrows for 2 weeks.
9. Wear clothing that fastens in front or back for one week.  Avoid slipovers, T-shirts, and turtlenecks.
10. Absolutely avoid sun or sun lamps for 6 weeks after surgery.  Heat may cause the nose or face to swell.
11. Do not swim for 2 weeks.
12. Do not be concerned if following removal of dressing, the face, nose, eyes and upper lip show some swelling and discoloration - this usually clears in 2-3 weeks.  After nasal plastic surgery, in certain patients, it may require 6 months for all swelling to completely subside.