All the tips you need to clean your nose after rhinoplasty

Here are some tips for cleaning your nose after rhinoplasty:

1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions: Always prioritize the specific guidelines provided by your surgeon, as they know the details of your nose job surgery and healing process.
2. Avoid Blowing Your Nose: Blowing your nose can disrupt healing tissues and increase the risk of bleeding. Instead, gently dab or wipe your nostrils with a soft tissue if there’s any discharge.
3. Use Saline Solution: Saline sprays or rinses help keep the nasal passages moist, reduce crusting, and prevent infection. You can use a pre-made saline spray or make your own by mixing a teaspoon of salt in a cup of boiled, cooled water. Spray or apply it gently according to your surgeon’s instructions.
4. Gentle Cleaning with Q-Tips: If there is dried blood or crusting, dampen a cotton swab with hydrogen peroxide or saline solution and gently clean around the nostrils. Avoid inserting the swab deep into your nose, and be very careful not to disturb any stitches or incisions.
5. Keep the Area Moisturized: Apply a small amount of antibiotic ointment (if recommended by your surgeon) around the incision sites and inside the nostrils using a clean Q-tip to keep the area soft and prevent crusting.
6. Use a Humidifier: Running a humidifier in your room, especially at night, can help keep the air moist, which reduces dryness and crusting in your nose, making it easier to clean.
7. Avoid Touching Your Nose: Refrain from picking or scratching inside your nose, even if it feels itchy or crusty. This helps prevent irritation, infection, and disruption of the healing process.
8. Sleep with Your Head Elevated: Keeping your head elevated for the first couple of weeks helps reduce swelling and minimizes the risk of fluid build-up, which can impact how clean your nasal passages remain.
9. No Smoking or Alcohol: Avoid smoking and alcohol during the recovery process, as they can slow healing and cause irritation or excessive bleeding.
10. Be Patient: Cleaning your nose after rhinoplasty can be challenging, but it’s important to be gentle and patient to avoid complications.

If you experience excessive bleeding, pain, or unusual discharge, contact your surgeon immediately for further guidance.

11. Use a Gentle, Lukewarm Shower: Taking a warm shower can help soften crusts around your nostrils and make cleaning easier. Allow the steam to gently loosen any dried blood or mucus, but avoid directing water pressure at your face. This helps prevent disturbing your healing nose.
12. Avoid Strenuous Activities: Activities that increase blood flow to your face, such as heavy lifting, bending over, or intense exercise, can cause bleeding or swelling, making it harder to maintain a clean nose. Take it easy until your surgeon gives you the green light to resume normal activities.
13. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water keeps your tissues hydrated, which can help reduce crusting and keep your nasal passages moist.
14. Change Your Dressings as Instructed: If your surgeon has placed external dressings or splints, follow their instructions on when and how to change them. Keeping them clean and dry will aid in overall healing.
15. Be Mindful of Sneezing: If you need to sneeze, try to do so with your mouth open to reduce pressure on your nose. This helps prevent injury or disruption to the healing tissues.

11. Avoid Hot and Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can cause blood vessels in your nose to dilate, leading to increased mucus production and potentially making your nose harder to clean. Stick to a bland diet during the initial healing period.
12. Avoid Using Nasal Irrigation Devices: While saline sprays are typically safe, avoid using nasal irrigation devices like neti pots unless your surgeon specifically recommends them. They can cause trauma to your healing nose and increase the risk of complications.
13. Don’t Wear Glasses or Sunglasses: If your rhinoplasty involved changes to the nasal bridge, avoid wearing glasses or sunglasses, as they can put pressure on the nose and interfere with cleaning and healing. Your surgeon may recommend alternatives, such as taping glasses to your forehead or using special splints.
14. Protect Your Nose from Sun Exposure: The skin on your nose will be sensitive during the healing process, and sun exposure can cause discoloration and delay healing. Protect your nose by wearing a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors, and avoid direct sun exposure for the first few weeks.
15. Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits with your surgeon are crucial to monitor your healing progress. They can help with any cleaning challenges you may face and provide professional guidance if you encounter any issues.

21. Avoid Hair Dryers and Heat Exposure: Steer clear of using hair dryers, saunas, or hot baths during the initial healing phase, as excessive heat can increase swelling and cause discomfort. Heat can also dry out the nasal passages, making it harder to keep your nose clean.
22. Use a Soft Towel to Pat Dry: After gently rinsing or cleaning your nose, use a soft, clean towel to pat the area dry. Avoid rubbing or applying pressure, as this can disrupt healing tissues and cause irritation.
23. Limit the Use of Makeup and Skincare Products: If you wish to use makeup or skincare products around your nose, wait until your surgeon gives you the go-ahead. Applying products too soon can clog pores, cause irritation, or introduce bacteria to the healing incisions.
24. Monitor for Signs of Infection: Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus-like discharge, or a foul odor. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately for advice and treatment.
25. Maintain Proper Hygiene: Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your face, cleaning your nose, or applying any ointments. This reduces the risk of introducing bacteria to the healing area.
26. Avoid Wearing Tight Clothing Over Your Head: For the first few weeks, avoid wearing tight clothing that you have to pull over your head, as this can accidentally bump or put pressure on your nose. Opt for button-up or zip-up tops to protect your healing nose.
27. Be Careful Around Pets and Children: Small children and pets can accidentally bump your nose, so be cautious around them during the recovery period. Consider sleeping in a separate space if you have a pet that tends to jump or cuddle up close to your face.
28. Stay Calm and Relaxed: Stress can negatively impact the healing process, so try to keep stress levels in check. Engage in relaxing activities such as gentle walks, reading, or meditation to promote overall well-being and aid in recovery.
29. Avoid Over-the-Counter Nasal Sprays: Unless your surgeon recommends them, avoid using over-the-counter nasal decongestant sprays, as they can be too harsh and cause irritation or complications during healing.
30. Stay Informed and Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgeon with any questions or concerns about cleaning your nose after rhinoplasty. Every individual’s healing process is unique, and your surgeon is the best source of advice for your specific situation.

By following these comprehensive tips and maintaining good communication with your surgeon, you can effectively clean and care for your nose, ensuring a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome after rhinoplasty.