Nasal Exercises After Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty surgery can be life changing, but the recovery process may be daunting. One of the key components of post operative care is incorporation of necessary nasal exercises.

Nasal exercises also known as nasal rehabilitation exercises are techniques recommended by surgeons. These techniques help maintain the new shape of the nose. They also address minor deviations in the nasal bones, particularly if they were broken during the reshaping process.

• • First 1-2 Weeks: Focus on healing and allow swelling to subside, with minimal activity.
  • Cast Removal: Usually around 6-7 days post-surgery. At this time, you may be instructed to start nasal exercises.
  • Ongoing Exercises: Gentle massage and pressure to the nose are encouraged for another 8-12 weeks to help with swelling reduction and bone healing.

Note:- The timing, duration and type of exercises may vary depending on the individual patient and surgeon’s instructions.

• • Nasal Massage: This primary exercise benefits the overall recovery. Massage the bridge of your nose and nasal passages with a circular motion to promote blood flow and healing.
  • Breathing Exercise: Breathe deeply through your nose to promote healing and reduce congestion.
  • Flaring Exercise: Flare your nostrils outward to help improve nasal breathing.
  • Nasal Pinch Exercise: Pinch the bridge of the nose and release for the improvement of nasal tip definition and nasal symmetry.
  • Tongue Lift Exercise: Lift the back of your tongue to the roof of your mouth to reduce nasal tip drooping and improve its projection.
  • Humming Exercise: Hum to help loosen and clear the mucus from your nasal passages.

Nasal massage involves using your index finger and thumb, to apply gentle pressure to different parts of the nose to reshape the nasal contour. Important considerations include:

• • Use gentle, upward motions. Firstly massage the tip of the nose then sides and at last massage the bridge of the nose.
  • Massage 2-3 times a day for 5 to 10 minutes to promote healing and tissue remodeling.
  • Be cautious when performing nasal exercises, as excessive pressure can cause damage or complications.

Note:- Always follow your surgeon’s recommendations regarding the type, frequency and duration of exercises.

You may wonder, “Do nasal exercises really work?” The answer to this cliché question is yes they do wonders to your nose and you will be grateful for the outcomes.

Nasal exercises are important because ignoring them after rhinoplasty can have regrettable outcomes, including:

• • Postoperative Complications: Neglecting exercises may lead to long term issues like nasal obstruction, deviated septum and nasal asymmetry.
  • Nasal Aesthetics: Ignoring may result in a poor nasal shape, nasal tip drooping, and uneven nostrils.
  • Nasal Irregularities: Inadequate molding of the nose can cause irregularities making it difficult to achieve the desired surgical results.

Since the benefits of the exercise outweigh the drawbacks, you might not want to skip them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I shape my nose after rhinoplasty?

To shape your nose after rhinoplasty you have to keep these important tips in mind:

• • • Avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the nose.
    • Avoid glasses on the bridge of the nose.
    • Avoid touching or poking your nose.
    • Taping can help with swelling and support the nasal structure.
    • Focus on recovery.

How do I unclog my nose after rhinoplasty?

Clogged nose after any nasal surgery can be very challenging and discomforting. For the relief you can use saline nasal spray, humidifier and warm compress on affected areas.

How long does it take for the nose to settle after rhinoplasty?

It varies from patient to patient but generally it takes up to a year for the nose and underlying structures to fully recover. Final results of the surgery may take more than a year to become apparent as swelling subsides over time.