The postoperative period after a rhinoplasty is essential to ensure proper healing, control swelling, and achieve the best possible functional and aesthetic outcome. During the first few weeks, it is normal to experience swelling, nasal congestion, local sensitivity, and some discomfort. These symptoms tend to improve progressively, but the recommended care instructions must be followed carefully.

During the first week after surgery, you should apply the prescribed antibiotic ointment to the incision site 3 times a day, according to the medication provided at discharge. This helps protect the surgical wound and promotes proper initial healing. The ointment should be applied with clean hands and gently, without excessive friction over the operated area.

After the first postoperative appointment, and depending on clinical progress, you should begin applying a healing ointment 3 times a day, such as SVR Cicavit 50+ or Avène Cicalfate Repair Cream. This should be continued until the end of the first month. Regular application helps hydrate the skin, protect the scar, and support a more balanced tissue recovery.

Also after the first follow-up visit, it is recommended to begin applying adhesive tape to the nasal bridge (“taping”) using 3M Micropore tape. This tape should be applied daily during the afternoon and night for a period of 3 months. It can be removed during the day and reapplied upon returning home. The purpose of this taping is to help control residual swelling, provide gentle support to the soft tissues, and encourage the skin to adapt to the new nasal structure. The application should follow the technique explained during your consultation. As a reference, you may consult the following demonstration video:

Regarding medium-term healing, after the first month and up to the end of the fourth month, the use of a scar gel such as Dermatix is recommended. This product can help improve scar maturation and enhance its appearance over time.

Return to physical activity should be gradual. After 1 week, light aerobic exercise such as walking or low-intensity cardio can be resumed. After 2 weeks, light strength training may be started, avoiding intense effort, significant increases in blood pressure, or movements with risk of impact to the nose. Regular physical activity can generally be resumed 1 month after surgery, provided recovery is progressing well and according to medical advice.

Throughout the recovery period, it is important to avoid any trauma to the nose and to follow all instructions given during follow-up appointments. Recovery after rhinoplasty is gradual, and the final result develops over the course of several months.