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How should I prepare for the surgery?
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The weeks preceding your nose job should be used to make sure that everything is in order and ready
to go forward without a hitch when the big day finally arrives. Aspirin and products containing aspirin
should be avoided during this time, as they thin the blood and make postoperative bleeding more likely.
Vitamin supplements, though, should be taken to promote healing; multivitamins containing C, E, and iron
are particularly recommended. Minor illnesses such as colds may not be alarming in themselves, but they
can cause complications with invasive surgeries, so you should notify your surgeon if you develop any.
Lastly, make sure that you have everything you need for your recovery period and no pressing tasks to
complete during that time. It will be much easier to take care of these things before the Rhinoplasty procedure than after.
A day before is your last chance to get everything in order for your Rhinoplasty.
Assemble supplies for cold compresses to minimize swelling after the nose job, including ice or frozen bags
of vegetables and pieces of gauze. Some surgeons also recommend beginning to take Arnica Montana, an herbal
supplement that combats swelling and bruising. You should also stock up on light, easily digestible foods for
after the operation, including juices, soups, and crackers.
Wash your face very thoroughly with an antibacterial cleanser the night before the surgery to kill
germs that could cause skin infections. Do not eat anything after midnight, or else you may become
nauseated after the Rhinoplasty surgery. Finally, make sure you get plenty of good sleep overnight so
that you are rested for the challenge ahead.
Before you set foot in the operating room, you can begin preparing for your Rhinoplasty surgery.
The steps you take prior to surgery will help ensure the safety and success of your procedure.
Planning ahead can also help ease the stress that you may feel just prior to your surgery.
Preparations made before surgery can lead to a more comfortable and enjoyable recovery after surgery:
- Do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications (your doctor can provide you with a list of OTC medications to avoid)
- If you smoke, quit smoking for at least 2 weeks pre-op (and anticipate no smoking for the recovery, smoking greatly increases your risk of complications;
smoking has been shown to increase the chance of poor wound healing. This can lead to skin death (necrosis) and cause scars,
skin loss and lead to subsequent surgery to excise the dead skin).
- Obtain a copy of your doctor's protocol
- Make arrangements to have someone drive you to and from the operation
- Arrange for someone to care for you the first 24-72 hours after surgery
(consider hiring a nurse for the first 24 hours, this is can be very tiring and emotional for loved ones)
- Fill prescriptions (especially pain medications and antibiotics) before surgery
- Consider a pill case with time chart for taking medications
- Purchase thermometer, antibacterial soap, dressings, gauze
- Purchase any homeopathic medicines (i.e. Bromelain and Arnica Gel, for swelling and bruising) Be sure to discuss this with your doctor
- Set up home recovery area: lots of pillows, books, magazines, journal, stationery, T.V., remote control, videos, favorite CDs, humidifier, nasal spray,
hot water bottles/heating pads, bucket with lid in case of vomiting
- Black out windows so you can rest during the day
- Whistle, bell, walkie-talkies or intercom system for requesting help
- Prepare and freeze meals for 2 weeks
- Consider quick snacks: Protein shakes, soup, applesauce, jell-O, frozen dinners, yogurt, oatmeal, cottage cheese, juice (purchase flexible straws for easier drinking)
- Be sure to have adequate protein - the body needs it for proper healing
- Talk to your doctor about low-sodium foods to reduce swelling
- Prepare Icepacks (can also use packs of frozen veggies or fruit, gel packs, etc/) to reduce post-op swelling
- Purchase large clips to hold packs in place
- Moisturizers, scar reducing creams and petroleum jelly for incisions (if open surgery)
- Laxatives (pain medications are often binding)
- Eye Drops (after any surgery, eyes can be dry)
- Consider hand-held shower head and bathroom chair
- Telephone with speaker phone near your bed (turn off the ringer so it doesn't disturb you while you sleep)
- On the day of surgery, wear loose clothing which will be easy to get off and on after operation (a shirt that buttons in front)
- Follow your physician's directions carefully regarding medications, eating & drinking, etc.
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