Hitting Your Nose After Rhinoplasty – What To Do And How To Prevent It

Even a successful rhinoplasty procedure requires a proper post-operative care plan to ensure flawless recovery. One of the most crucial aspects of this period is avoiding any impact or injury to the nose.

Unfortunately, accidents can still occur, and hitting your nose after rhinoplasty can cause serious complications. Let’s discuss the potential dangers, how to avoid accidental injuries, and when it’s safe to resume your regular activities.

What Happens If You Hit Your Nose After Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Even a minor accident after rhinoplasty can cause serious damage to the results of the surgery. The bones and cartilage in the nose are fragile and delicate following the procedure, so any sudden movement or minor pressure can cause complications.

One of the most common risks is the displacement of the nasal bones or cartilage which can lead to an asymmetrical and misshapen nose. This can result in further complications such as difficulty breathing, infection, or the need for additional surgery.

An accidental bump can cause the sutures or incisions to open up, leading to bleeding, swelling, and even infection. This can prolong the recovery period and result in scarring or other visible marks.

Any impact or trauma to the nose after rhinoplasty surgery can impact the final outcome, so if you experience any pain, swelling, or other symptoms after hitting your nose, you should contact your surgeon immediately to discuss your options.

How Do I Know If I Damaged My Nose?

If you accidentally hit your nose after rhinoplasty, you may experience some discomfort or pain, which is a normal response by the body. One of the most common signs of damage is increased pain or tenderness in the nasal area. You may also notice a change in the shape or size of your nose, such as asymmetry or deformity. Additionally, you may have difficulty breathing or feel congested, which can also be an indicator of damage.

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms after hitting your nose, it’s important to consult with your surgeon immediately. They will assess your nose and determine if any further treatment is necessary to prevent further complications. In some cases, additional tests such as an X-ray or CT scan may be required to assess the extent of the damage.

What to Do if You Bump Your Nose but See No Serious Damage

If you bump your nose accidentally but observe no significant damage, such as bleeding or misshapenness, there is a good chance you did not ruin your results. Follow these steps to ensure a safe recovery.

If you see any light bleeding, make sure you stop it by applying gentle pressure to your nose for ten minutes with a gauze pad. Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and discomfort. Elevate your head using a couple of pillows while sleeping or resting.

In the future, be more cautious while engaging in day-to-day activities, as further collisions could cause more severe complications. If you experience persistent pain or are apprehensive about your recovery, contact your surgeon immediately for further advice.

How to Prevent Hitting Your Nose

Preventing accidental injuries to the nose is crucial during the recovery period after rhinoplasty. You will most likely be wearing a protective splint or cast during the first week following the procedure, which will help to stabilize the nose and absorb any minor impacts. Most patients are also extra careful during this time, but the nose will remain fairly sensitive to physical damage for several weeks after the splint is removed.

It is this period – while your nose is healing nicely, the pain and bruises are subsiding, and you are starting to get back to your normal routine – when you need to focus on protecting your nose for a bit longer until it fully heals. By following these helpful tips, you can significantly reduce your chances of hitting your nose.

1. Avoid certain risky activities: For the first few weeks after the procedure, it’s essential to refrain from any strenuous or high-intensity exercises, sports, or activities that may put your nose at risk of injury. It’s even recommended to avoid lighter activities such as jogging, running, jumping, or bending over.
2. Be extra careful: Be extra cautious when performing any task that may risk falling and hitting your nose. Avoid activities such as washing your hair, leaning over sinks, or cleaning the floor. Sleep in the recommended position and alone for a while, especially if your partner moves around a lot during the night.
3. Wear protective gear: If you are participating in physical activities, such as cycling or skiing, wear protective gear over the nose to prevent any injuries from occurring. Wear a protective splint if you are around small children.
4. Follow your doctor’s guidelines: The best way to ensure a safe and successful recovery is by following your surgeon’s instructions. Make sure to attend all your scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, address any concerns or complications, and ensure that you’re healing properly.

Taking preventative measures to avoid hitting your nose during recovery is the best way to ensure successful healing. By following your surgeon’s instructions, avoiding high-risk activities, and being extra careful, you can reduce the risk of complications and enjoy a speedy recovery.

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Sanjay Rai

Sanjay is a Senior Clinical Member at Berkeley Square Medical carrying over a decade of experience. He has assisted over 1500 surgeries carried out at the hospital supporting patients both pre and post-surgery throughout their treatment journeys. This article was written with the contribution of Dr Taimur Shoaib, our Consultant Plastic Surgeon.

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