Post-Rhinoplasty Care Guidelines:

1. Follow Surgeon’s Instructions:

   – Always adhere strictly to the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon. They may have specific guidelines tailored to your individual case, so follow them carefully.

2. Timing of Cleaning:

   – Typically, cleaning your nose begins a day or two after surgery, once your surgeon has assessed your condition and removed any internal packing or splints.

3. Supplies Needed:

   – Saline Solution: Prepare a saline solution by mixing sterile saline with distilled water. This can be purchased pre-made or made at home by boiling water and adding salt (1 teaspoon of salt per quart of water).

   – Nasal Spray: Your surgeon may recommend a specific nasal spray to use post-surgery, which can aid in moisturizing and cleaning the nasal passages.

   – Cotton Swabs: These are often used to apply saline solution gently to the nostrils.

   – Gauze or Soft Tissue: To gently dab and clean around the nostrils.

4. Techniques for Cleaning:

   – Saline Irrigation: Use a bulb syringe or a nasal irrigator (like a NeilMed sinus rinse bottle) to gently flush each nostril with saline solution. Tilt your head forward over a sink or basin and let the saline solution flow into one nostril, allowing it to drain out the other. Repeat for the other nostril. This helps to clear out any dried blood, mucus, or debris and keeps the nasal passages moist.

   – Nasal Spray: After saline irrigation, use the prescribed nasal spray as directed by your surgeon. This helps to further moisturize and cleanse the nasal passages.

   – Gently Clean Around Nostrils: Use moistened cotton swabs or gauze to clean around the outside of your nostrils. Be very gentle to avoid disturbing any internal sutures or causing irritation to the delicate skin.

5. Frequency:

   – Initially, you may need to clean your nose multiple times a day, especially if there is visible crusting or if instructed by your surgeon.

   – As healing progresses and nasal secretions decrease, you may reduce the frequency to once or twice daily.

6. Avoidance of Irritants:

   – Blowing Your Nose: Avoid blowing your nose forcefully for the first week or as instructed by your surgeon. Instead, gently dab around the nostrils to remove excess moisture.

   – Avoid Nasal Strips or Packing: Unless specifically instructed by your surgeon, do not insert nasal strips or packing into your nose as they can disrupt healing.

7. Signs of Infection or Complications:

   – Watch for signs of infection such as increased pain, fever, or excessive swelling. Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice any unusual symptoms.

8. Long-Term Care:

   – Follow-up appointments with your surgeon are essential to monitor healing progress. They may provide additional instructions for long-term nasal care and when to resume normal activities.

General Tips:

– Patience and Gentleness: Be patient with the healing process and handle your nose gently during cleaning to avoid unnecessary discomfort or complications.

– Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your nasal secretions thin and easier to expel naturally.

– Medication Compliance: Take any prescribed medications as directed, including antibiotics or pain relievers, to manage discomfort and prevent infection.

By following these guidelines and maintaining good nasal hygiene, you can promote faster healing and achieve the best possible results from your rhinoplasty surgery. Always consult your surgeon if you have any questions or concerns about cleaning your nose post-operatively.