How Soon After Rhinoplasty Can I Travel?

Asian girl with perfect face shape, hand touching nose.Rhinoplasty is a common form of cosmetic surgery, and it has numerous medical purposes. Yet, it could be an intimidating process. As common as it is, it’s still a surgical procedure requiring preparation and recovery. Keep reading and learn everything you need to know about rhinoplasty.

What Is a Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is best known as a “nose job, ” a complex surgical procedure that can change bone, skin, cartilage, or a combination of the three. The procedure involves reshaping a patient’s nose for aesthetic and medical reasons. Rhinoplasty can fix breathing issues caused by an injury or congenital disability or augment the shape of your nose for increased self-esteem. It is a relatively low-risk procedure.

Open Vs. Closed Rhinoplasty

There are two forms of rhinoplasty, referred to as open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. Open rhinoplasty comes by its name. An open rhinoplasty procedure involves incisions on the outside of the nose to allow access to the internal structures. This type of rhinoplasty is the more invasive of the two options but allows for more extensive changes. Because of its invasive nature, it may cause more swelling and discomfort.

Closed rhinoplasty only makes use of incisions inside the nose. While closed rhinoplasty will cause minor swelling, particularly in the tip, it also limits the amount of augmentation possible. 

Recovery and Travel

Recovery from rhinoplasty is highly individual and dependent on what type of procedure you get. You can expect to go home the same day, but you’ll need to rest with your head elevated for at least a week. Remaining elevated will help keep swelling under control. You’ll want to avoid travel until after that first week. Depending on how much swelling you have, it may take longer.

It can take six to eight weeks to recover from rhinoplasty. Most people are able to resume working within one to two weeks and to add more strenuous activities after six.. During your initial consultation, we can answer any questions you have to help you get a better idea of what you can expect before, during, and after your procedure.. Give us a call at713-271-9000 to learn more and schedule your consultation.

Posted in: Rhinoplasty