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Can a Facelift Fix Your Acne Scarring?

Model Image of a female with smooth skin, used in reference to Facelift procedure, New York, NY Many men and women today are plagued by the choices they made as teenagers, especially when it comes to their faces. From acne scars to enlarged pores, the evidence of those teenage, hormone-induced breakouts is everywhere. While acne is associated with youth, the scars left behind by pimples and blackheads can make you look older over time. While facelift surgery is known for correcting many of the common aging problems, there’s not much discussion on how it can (or can’t) help to reverse acne scars. So, how can a facelift help you?

Flatten and Tighten the Skin

If you are an eligible candidate, facelift surgery does many things, but the most commonly known change is how the skin becomes flattened and tightened. One goal of the facelift procedure is to smooth out loose skin and deep wrinkles by adjusting the skin and trimming away the excess. If you have large pores and acne scars, you might have noticed that stretching your skin gently with your fingertips seems to smooth them away. This happens because of surface tension on the skin as it is pulled flatter.

Unfortunately, facelift surgery in New York will not help you to smooth away these scars. During the procedure, the skin will be pulled to a natural amount of tension. While the excess will be removed, your skin won’t have that “pulled look.” Staying natural and youthful might mean keeping those larger pores, or at least turning to other methods to improve their appearance.

Excess Skin Removal

While tightening the skin may not deliver the results you want, the physical removal of some skin could help. During the facelift procedure, the skin and underlying tissue are lifted and pulled outward to a natural and more youthful position. Any excess skin is then removed from the outer edges before your sutures are closed. If you have noticed some scarring around the jaw and cheek areas, you might want to talk to your facial plastic surgeon about this. Depending on the degree to which your skin is sagging, some of these scars might be removed along with the excess skin. You’ll only be able to get such personalized answers through a face-to-face consultation and it certainly never hurts to ask!

Improvements Made by Facelift Surgery

Even if your acne scars cannot be treated with facelift surgery, there are many ways in which this procedure can improve your appearance and leave you looking younger and refreshed. Facelifts can help to diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and creases around the mid and lower regions of the face. Patients with turkey neck, jowls, and sagging skin can see dramatic improvements as well. Discuss the surgical procedure with a board certified facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Miller to learn more about the specific anti-aging benefits a facelift will offer to you.

Other Ways to Treat Acne Scars

Facelift surgery isn’t the only procedure that can improve your look. There are many nonsurgical techniques that will couple nicely with your facelift procedure and address your specific concerns about skin-tightening, skin resurfacing, scar treatments, and pore minimizing. Consult with your facial plastic surgeon to learn more about when and what treatments would be best able to help you address your own specific concerns.

Plan Your Anti-Aging Facial Procedure in NYC Today

If you’d like to learn more about how a facelift surgery and other acne-scarring treatments can help you to achieve the results you want, consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon today. Dr. Philip Miller has specialized exclusively in facial plastic surgery for over 20 years.

A recognized expert in facial rejuvenation procedures, Dr. Miller is frequently invited to share his particular techniques with his peers. He has been voted among the Best Doctors in America each year since 2007 and has also been named a Top Doctor of New York. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller, contact his office located at 60 East 56th Street, Third Floor in New York City, by calling (646) 791-3025.

Next, read all about Deviated Septums 

What You Need to Know About Male Rhinoplasty

Male Facelift Model in New York Rhinoplasty surgery is performed on male and female patients alike by facial plastic surgeons in New York and across the world. While women still comprise a greater number of rhinoplasty patients, the number of men seeking this surgery is on the rise. If you’re a man considering rhinoplasty, here are some quick facts to know as you plan your consultation and surgery.

How Are Male Patients Assessed as Candidates for Rhinoplasty?

Before you can schedule a rhinoplasty surgery, your nose must be fully mature. If your nose is still growing, you will have problems with your results changing over time. Once your nose is set in its adult shape and size, rhinoplasty can make life-long changes and achieve the results you want to see. Nasal maturity usually occurs in the teen years, typically around 15 to 17 years old for male patients.

Beyond your age and nasal maturity, all patients of rhinoplasty should be in good overall health without any conditions or lifestyle factors that could delay healing. You should also be a nonsmoker to avoid potentially harmful complications during and after surgery. Finally, you should have a reasonable expectation for your own rhinoplasty results to ensure your satisfaction at the end of your recovery period. If you’re not sure if you would make a good candidate for rhinoplasty, meet with an experienced facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Miller to get his or her opinion.

Do Differences Exist Between the Male and Female Nose?

Every nose, every patient, and every rhinoplasty is unique, but there are some characteristics shared among men and others shared among women. Most noses are similar in structure, but preferences in outcomes usually differ.

On average, male patients also tend to have thicker and more vascular skin. As a result, careful measures must be taken to penetrate the skin of the male nose without causing excessive bleeding or fluid retention after surgery.

Finally, many men considering rhinoplasty may have injuries from sports activities, childhood accidents, and other injuries. A higher percentage of male patients have deviated septums, past breakages, and other problems as a result, including breathing issues. For this reason, many male rhinoplasty surgeries will work to alter the appearance of the nose while improving its function at the same time.

How Are Male Patients Psychologically Affected by Rhinoplasty?

Men who are approaching the rhinoplasty process may have different psychological considerations than female patients. It is not as common a procedure among men, especially for cosmetic reasons, and that can lead to doubts, embarrassment, and other negative emotions. As a male rhinoplasty patient, it’s important to focus on the benefits you will receive from your surgery, including an improved appearance and boost of self-confidence because of your new look.

Plan a Rhinoplasty at New York’s Top Plastic Surgery Clinic

Both men and women can benefit from the changes possible through rhinoplasty. To get more specific information on how this surgery can help you, book a consultation with the right facial plastic surgeon today. He can provide more in-depth knowledge about the nasal surgery process. Dr. Philip Miller has specialized exclusively in facial plastic surgery for over 20.

A recognized expert in rhinoplasty, Dr. Miller has been frequently invited to share his specific techniques with his peers at various national facial plastic surgery conventions. He has been voted among the Best Doctors in America each year since 2007 and has also been named a Top Doctor of New York. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller, contact his plastic surgery clinic located at 60 East 56th Street, Third Floor in New York City, by calling (646) 791-3025.

Sleep On Your Back to Preserve Your Facelift

face comparison of an older woman who had facelift surgery. Her face looks much younger and her skin looks much tighter, New York, NY

Let’s face the fact that facelift surgery in New York is a valuable investment of your time and money, so you’ll want to keep its benefits for a long time to come. On average, patients can turn back the clock up to 10 years with a facelift surgery and of course, nobody wants to have the hands of time catch up with them. 

For certain, once your recovery period is over and you’re finally enjoying that new, refreshed, and well-rested look, you would be thinking about ways to keep it for as long as possible. While there are many skincare treatments to use and daily lifestyle changes to make, one of the most helpful techniques can be done while you sleep. It’s called beauty sleep for a reason, right? 

Your Sleeping Position Matters

Many of us spend a lot of time thinking about our daily activities and what we can do to keep our skin clear, smooth, and firm. For instance, we’re confident we’ve cracked the skincare code by: moisturizing to keep skin looking soft and hydrated, performing gentle scrubs on the face using fingertips to keep the skin supple, maintaining a daily skincare regimen, not smoking because it causes wrinkles, and protecting the skin from the sun to prevent aging. All of these conscious habits are very beneficial to the skin, but there’s a large part of our day that goes unaccounted for –and that is, sleeping. And yes, doctors already recommend getting enough sleep to get your whole body healthy, including your skin. But getting enough sleep is just one thing. It is how you get that sleep that can also make a difference. The way you sleep at night can either age you, or help keep you looking young.

Sleeping Positions That Age You

The average adult sleeps 6-8 hours, which also means a lot of time having your face smushed up against a pillow. Certain sleep positions can actually create deep wrinkles and creases from consistent long nights of sleeping: on your side and on your stomach.

If you sleep on your side, for instance, that part of your face that touches the pillow pushes the skin upward and creates the creases which will eventually settle into place permanently. This position has the tendency to leave lines along the cheek and chin areas, which will aggravate as you age.

The same can happen if you sleep on your stomach. This position could actually be worse because more of your face will have contact on the pillow. Men and women who are stomach sleepers see more wrinkles on the forehead and upper-midface. While these lines might not affect facelift results directly, they could still have an impact in other ways. Imagine having a youthful lower face with a wrinkle-heavy forehead. You might not need to repeat your facelift surgery, but you’ll wind up considering a brow lift to counteract your sleep wrinkles. And while side and stomach sleeping may be the most comfortable ways to catch your zzz’s, they’re not going to help safeguard your youthful, post-facelift appearance.

The Best Anti-Aging Way To Sleep 

If placing your face on your pillow results in aging effects, it might be obvious which sleeping position offers the best facelift-preserving results –back sleeping. With the face free of pressure and contact for those 6-8 hours, your skin stays smooth and refreshed. Although other factors may still cause wrinkles in the long run, you’ll know they won’t result from your sleeping.

How To Sleep Comfortably On Your Back

If fighting wrinkles in your sleep is so easy, why don’t more people sleep on their backs? Unfortunately, most consider this to be the least comfortable position for sleeping. Still, the benefits of back-sleeping reach beyond skin care to include relief of back pain, deeply restful sleep, and avoiding strain or isolation on any one part of the body.

To get a better night’s rest and fight wrinkles in your sleep, try these methods to get more comfortable while sleeping on your back:

  • Find comfortable ways to position your pillows. Those who sleep on their backs use a pillow beneath the head and neck, and a second pillow beneath the knees to naturally and comfortably contour the body.
  • If you find yourself rolling over once you fall asleep, box yourself in with two other pillows beneath your arms.
  • Pick a firm mattress. The extra support from a firm mattress is good for back sleeping as it helps you maintain your position throughout the night.
  • Use meditation to lure yourself to sleep. Get comfortable in your bed with your pillows in place then close your eyes, and calm yourself through a gentle breathing and meditation exercise. As you relax each muscle of the body, you become more comfortable in this new position as you drift off to sleep.

The most important way to learn how to become comfortable in this sleeping position is by being consistent. Sleeping in this new position each and every night will eventually become a habit. You’ll gradually learn to sleep on your back by default as you retrain your body. This takes time, so don’t get frustrated if you wake up on your side or stomach. Simply correct your position and try again. One day, it will become second nature and you can sleep your way to enjoying your youthful-looking face for many years to come.

Consult With A Facelift Specialist in NYC

Facelift surgery is the best anti-aging weapon you can choose from the skin rejuvenation arsenal. When performed by a skilled surgeon, a facelift should provide you with long-lasting results. If you’d like to learn more about facelift surgery, whether it’s a good option for you, or how to prolong its results, consult with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon today. 

Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS has specialized exclusively in facial plastic surgery and offers over 20 years of experience and knowledge to his patients. A recognized expert in facial rejuvenation procedures, Dr. Miller has been frequently invited to share his specific techniques with his peers at various national facial plastic surgery meetings. He has been voted among the Best Doctors in America each year since 2007, and has also been named a Top Doctor of New York. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller, contact his office located at 60 East 56th Street, Third Floor in New York City, by calling (646) 791-3025.

Next, find out if a facelift could fix your acne scarring

There’s No Shame In Rhinoplasty

rhinoplasty patient in new york For a long time, rhinoplasty surgery has ranked among the top most requested procedures for men and women. For just as long, new york rhinoplasty patients have been afraid to reveal their surgical results to friends and family.

Despite the many advances made in rhinoplasty techniques and medical technology, a stigma still surrounds “nose jobs.” Even this term seems to undermine the value that can be found in refining or reshaping the nasal structure. If you’re planning a rhinoplasty surgery or have been a patient recently, it’s time to be proud of the well-crafted results of your nose job and stop being ashamed.

Why Does the Stigma Exist?

The stigma of rhinoplasty is tough to trace back to its roots. It seems that everyday women and Hollywood starlets alike have gone to great lengths to cover up rhinoplasty surgeries from their loved ones and the public eye. Many patients choose subtle changes to achieve their results without drawing too much attention. Others use other methods to distract from their nasal changes, like a new hairstyle or makeup look. We’re so happy to reinvent ourselves through our fashion, our careers, and even our personal lives, but not through a helpful cosmetic surgery like rhinoplasty. Where does this come from?

Only speculation can answer this question. Some of the possible reasons could include:

  • Social rejection for anyone who changes what nature has given us.
  • Familial rejection because of changes to hereditary nasal characteristics.
  • The idea that surgery is a “cheap” way to “buy” beauty.
  • Jealousy of others who have not sought the procedure for themselves, either because of fear or financial difficulty.

What Are Your Reasons for Surgery?

There is an obvious disconnect between the reasons patients seek rhinoplasty surgery and the reasons they are judged for it. The vast majority of prospective rhinoplasty patients are looking for a way to balance their facial features, improve their self-confidence, reverse damage from a previous nasal trauma, resolve functional problems, or just achieve the nose they’ve always wanted to have. These reasons are genuine and very personal. Ultimately, your choice to have rhinoplasty surgery is yours alone and those who would judge you cannot truly know your motivations. Consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon to create the right surgical plan that can help you to create facial harmony among your nose and other features.

How Can You Be Proud of Your Rhinoplasty Results?

The choice is up to you whether you will hide your results or embrace these beautiful changes. Rhinoplasty surgery can boost your self-image and end years of hiding from the camera, avoiding mirrors, and listening to the insults of others. Rhinoplasty can resize a nose that is too big or small, reshape a pointy or bulbous nasal tip, remove a bump or hump from the nasal bridge, and much more. Some of these aesthetic concerns can interfere with your happiness, self-worth, and other areas of your life.

If you’re not sure how to tell others about your rhinoplasty surgery, consider these helpful tips:

  • Talk about your surgical plans ahead of time with your loved ones, individually or as a group.
  • Don’t be too specific about the details unless you are asked.
  • Be open about your motivations for surgery so they understand how much thought has gone into this personal choice.
  • Be sensitive that your family members might be insulted if you talk negatively about nasal features you share. Stick to the basics and don’t offend them, especially if they’re opting not to make surgical changes of their own.
  • Don’t be defensive. Not everyone will understand your choice, but remember that it is yours to make. Don’t be pulled into an argument if a loved one doesn’t support your choice initially. Make the decision that is right for you and respect that others will choose differently for themselves.

Even the simplest choices we make in life, from drinking a latte late at night to trying a bold new hair color, can stir reactions in those who care about us. Trust that your loved ones will ultimately be there to support you in the end. Be proud of the results that you can achieve with rhinoplasty surgery and the happiness you will experience as a result. To learn more about rhinoplasty, visit medlineplus.gov

Consult With a New York Rhinoplasty Specialist to Plan Your Procedure

To achieve rhinoplasty results you can be proud of, book a consultation with the right facial plastic surgeon today. He can provide more in-depth knowledge about the nasal surgery process. Dr. Philip Miller has specialized exclusively in facial plastic surgery and offers over 20 years of experience and knowledge to his patients.

A recognized expert in rhinoplasty, Dr. Miller has been frequently invited to share his specific techniques with his peers at various national facial plastic surgery meetings. He has been voted among the Best Doctors in America each year since 2007 and has also been named a Top Doctor of New York. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller, contact his office located at 60 East 56th Street, Third Floor in New York City, by calling (646) 791-3025.

Next, here’s everything you need to know about male rhinoplasty

Four Things Off-Limits After Your Facelift

facelift model in new york After your facelift surgery in New York, you’re going to want to look your very best. Taking proper care of yourself during your facelift recovery is the very best way to ensure that your potential results become a reality. You may become more confident, build your self-esteem, and find yourself more comfortable in public, with friends, and even in front of the camera.

If you want to have your smoothest and most successful facelift recovery, you’ll need to follow your facial plastic surgeon’s instructions very carefully. Make sure you take steps ahead of time to avoid these recovery-derailing pitfalls right from the start.

#1 – Don’t Be a Super Hero

By all means, face your recovery period head on and be ready to fight and win. Just don’t overdo it and, above all else, don’t play the hero. After surgery, your body is drained, injured, and very sore. It has a lot of work to do in order to support your facial plastic surgeon’s expertly crafted results. To heal properly, and as quickly as possible, your body needs lots of rest, plenty of water, and a balanced diet full of nutrients and vitamins. When your body is happy, it will work with you instead of against you. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can stay up late working, watch the neighbor’s kids, or take your dog for a long walk if your body is telling you no. Be a hero for your body and get some rest!

The same rules go for your prescribed pain medication. If you’re trying to “tough it out” between doses and delaying (or skipping) them, stop being the hero. Resisting your pain pills leaves you miserable and also causes incredible stress on your body. Stress can actually delay your healing process, so by skipping that dose, you could be setting yourself back and causing yourself unnecessary pain. Talk all of your medications as directed and trust the healing process.

#2 – Don’t Be a Beauty Queen

Before your facelift procedure, indulge yourself with a visit to the hair salon for a new cut and color, if you choose. On the morning of your surgery, take a long, hot shower to calm your nerves and clean your hair thoroughly. After your surgery, showering is off limits for at least a couple of days. You must also avoid makeup and any haircare products for up to a week. These activities can potentially lead to infection and other problems. It’s much safer to minimize your beauty habits for the first 48 hours of your recovery and follow your facial plastic surgeon’s instructions carefully. Remember that you should be resting during this time anyway, so stay inside and enjoy your extra time in pajamas.

#3 – Don’t Be an Athlete

After facelift surgery, rest is top priority and athletic activities are strictly forbidden. You might be tempted to resume your running routine or get back to the gym as soon as you feel more energetic, but don’t get ahead of yourself. Vigorous or strenuous activities can increase swelling in the face, create problems with bleeding, or cause additional setbacks to the healing process. You must avoid these activities for four to six weeks after surgery for your best results. Skip out on the marathon training and ease your way back into your exercise routine with an easy walk around the neighborhood. Your facial plastic surgeon can help you to determine when you’ll be ready for your favorite activities, like hiking, yoga, basketball, or other social activities.

#4 – Don’t Be a Food Critic

You might be tempted to treat yourself to all of your favorite meals and snacks while you rest and recover from your facelift surgery. Unfortunately, chewy foods can be uncomfortable or even painful to eat. Your body will need nutritious foods to heal properly, but you’ll be limited in what you’ll be able to eat without increasing swelling or pain in your face. Talk to your facial plastic surgeon about snacks or meal ideas that fall somewhere in the middle. Avoid the urge to eat marshmallows for days and stock your cabinets with smarter snacks. Shop for things like yogurt, eggs (scramble them), soft fruits like bananas, meal replacement drinks, baby food, and milk.

Be careful to avoid certain foods that can irritate you or are considered unhealthy. Skip the chips, cheese puffs, high sodium soups, or meats that are tough to chew. Avoid anything chewy, crunchy, or hard to eat. Instead, concentrate on smoother foods and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated throughout your recovery.

Consult with a New York Facial Plastic Surgeon Today

If you’d like to learn more about how the facelift surgery and recovery process, consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon today. Dr. Philip Miller has specialized exclusively in facial plastic surgery and offers over 20 years of experience and knowledge to his patients.

A recognized expert in facial rejuvenation procedures, Dr. Miller has been frequently invited to share his specific techniques with his peers at various national facial plastic surgery meetings. He has been voted among the Best Doctors in America each year since 2007 and has also been named a Top Doctor of New York. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller, contact his plastic surgery clinic located at 60 East 56th Street, Third Floor in New York City, by calling (646) 791-3025.

Next, learn about What to Expect after a Facelift

A Facelift at Any Age: What to Expect

The facelift procedure is not intended for patients at any specific age or even within a certain age range. Of course, prospective facelift patients should have developed some of the common signs of aging in some degree, but otherwise, there’s no age stamp on this procedure. For each age range, however, there may be specific concerns to discuss with your facial plastic surgeon, such as New York plastic surgeon Dr. Philip Miller. Every patients’ experience is unique, but your facelift journey may vary slightly based on your age.

A Facelift at Age 35

What was once a procedure for more mature adults has gotten a makeover, gearing its benefits toward a much younger crowd. Facelifts for patients in their 30s are becoming much more popular as the techniques improve and awareness of the surgery’s benefits increase. At the age of 35, a facelift patient might not have a lot of corrections to make, but undergoing the procedure could help as a preventative measure against more advanced signs in the years to come.

If you are concerned that your aging side effects require surgical correction, consult with a facial plastic surgeon experienced in the facelift procedure. You should be in good overall health, not smoke, have realistic expectations for your facelift results, and already be experiencing some of the signs of aging. You might have noticed fine lines around the mouth and nose, facial creases, and slight sagging in the skin around the lower face.

A Facelift at Age 45

The 40s is a time for big changes, especially women who are in the beginning stages of menopause. There is a myth that a woman’s facelift results can be affected by the hormonal changes of menopause, making it wise to wait until after this transition has completed. The good news is that there are plenty of facelifts performed on pre-menopausal women that result in long-lasting anti-aging effects. You can plan your facelift surgery on your own terms and leave the internal changes of your body for your primary care physician to worry about.

While the aging effects are not as dramatic or obvious in 40-something patients, the differences made by a facelift surgery can still be meaningful. Patients in this age group, both male and female, can benefit from the changes in their contour and profile. It’s a great way to set back the clock before some of the more drastic aging signs have begun to affect the face. Remember that every patient is unique, so your aging process will be yours alone. Consult with your facial plastic surgeon to discover how a facelift could benefit you the most during your 40s.

A Facelift at Age 55

During the 50s, prospective facelift patients might be seeing more dramatic changes to their faces and necks. The skin will likely begin to appear loose and more inelastic. Fatty deposits will be more noticeably shifted from the upper portion of the face downward to the lower region. It’s easy to become frustrated as the face changes dramatically during these years. Stress, environmental exposure, time, and gravity can all create unwanted effects that are irreversible with creams and topical treatments.

Because these aging effects won’t be limited to the mid- and lower face, many facelift patients in their 50s may choose to add on other facial rejuvenation procedures to create a more youthful look overall. Popular combinations might include a facelift with eyelid surgery, a brow lift, or a neck lift. Other patients might choose to incorporate nonsurgical anti-aging treatments into their procedure as well. Consult with your facial plastic surgeon about the best treatment methods for you.

A Facelift at Age 65

For more mature men and women in their 60s and beyond, facelift surgery offers the chance to recapture some of their youth and “clean up” the excess skin and fat around the lower facial region. Patients at this age tend to see a greater degree of inelastic skin and drooping around the chin and jaw. Jowls may form, as well as a double chin or “turkey neck.” While facelift surgery can’t make you look 30 again, it can certainly turn back the clock as much as 10 years by tightening up the skin, redistributing the fat cells as needed, and redefining the chin, neck, and jaw.

At 65, surgery can be performed safely and effectively, but there is a greater chance of post-surgical complications if you have certain medical conditions. Talk openly with your facial plastic surgeon if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a heart condition, diabetes, or any other medical concerns.

To learn more about facelift, visit medlineplus.gov

Plan Your Facelift Today With a New York Plastic Surgeon

If you’d like to learn more about how a facelift surgery can help you to appear more youthful, no matter what your age may be, consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon today. Dr. Philip Miller has specialized exclusively in facial plastic surgery, offering over 20 years of experience and knowledge to his patients.

A recognized expert in facial rejuvenation procedures, Dr. Miller has been frequently invited to share his specific techniques with his peers at various national facial plastic surgery meetings. He has been voted among the Best Doctors in America each year since 2007 and has also been named a Top Doctor of New York. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller, contact his office located at 60 East 56th Street, Third Floor in New York City, by calling (646) 791-3025.

Next, read about some Common Inconveniences after Facelift Surgery

Ten Things to Avoid After Rhinoplasty Surgery

Man with asymmetrical nose is seen in left picture, and has a straight nose after rhinoplasty in the second picture.

A rhinoplasty procedure can give you results that are dramatic, satisfying, and very positive. But the surgery is just half the battle. Once you’ve left the operating room to head home and begin your recovery, maintaining these new changes and actualizing these results will be all up to you. While each person will recover at a different pace, you have a hand at making your road to recovery much smoother, without any complications, unwanted side effects, or delays. Learn about the things you must avoid in order to achieve the nose job results you truly desire and to feel better as quickly as possible.

#1 – Strenuous Activities

While recovering from your rhinoplasty, you must avoid any strenuous activities like high impact exercising, heavy lifting, and anything that involves vigorous movement. There are several reasons to avoid these activities. Firstly, the excess blood flow to the face can increase swelling and even put you at risk for bleeding. Secondly, your sweat can compromise the healing process of your skin. Lastly, vigorous or strenuous activities can put you at risk for damage to the nose. When your nose is healing from surgery, the bones are often not set, making it more susceptible to damage, breakage, and shifting.

#2 – Blowing Your Nose

Allergies, colds, and the flu virus are difficult to contend with any time of the year, but they can be downright dangerous soon after your nasal surgery. For the weeks leading up to your surgery, steer clear of anyone who appears to be ill and wash your hands regularly. Don’t be afraid to carry hand sanitizer around or spray Lysol to your work area to make sure you’ve killed all those germs. Catching an illness before surgery can delay your procedure or, if symptoms show up after surgery, blowing your nose or sniffling can disrupt proper healing and cause bleeding.

#3 – Staying Out In the Sun

While a pool day or a tropical vacation always sounds like a good idea, be careful. Sun exposure can burn the nose, create discoloration at any incision sites where scar tissue is present, or increase your risk for certain complications. Even if your facial plastic surgeon has given you the all clear beforehand, wear a hat and some heavy-duty sunscreen to be extra safe.

#4 – Wearing Glasses

If you wear glasses regularly, you’ll need to try out contact lenses for a little while to allow time for your nose to heal properly. Glasses rest on the bridge of the nose, often leading to indents on the softened cartilage and tissue. While your nose is still healing, you’re best served by setting those glasses aside for a bit.

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#5 – Bumping, Hitting, Or Touching Your Nose At All

After rhinoplasty surgery, you’re going to be curious about what your new nose feels like, but it’s not a good idea to touch it, push on it, or poke it. Not only will it probably hurt, but you risk misaligning the bones, reshaping the cartilage, or undoing your results in some way. To keep the nasal shape safe from contact, avoid these activities:

  • Any form of exercise or sports, especially those that are high impact
  • Throw-and-catch games or other activities where an object might come in contact with your face
  • Pulling clothes over your head. Instead, stick to button-front shirts and pajamas
  • Carrying or lifting items
  • Playing rough with children or pets

Basically, try to keep your nose safe and protected from anything that could cause an injury. But of course, accidents sometimes do happen. If you encounter any problems after your rhinoplasty surgery, talk to your facial plastic surgeon about what steps you can take to reverse the damage or to plan a revision rhinoplasty procedure.

#6 – Lying Flat

Lying flat on the back might be comfortable for some, but it’s a dangerous activity for nose job patients. With the head at the same level as the heart, the blood flow to the face and nose will be increased. This can encourage excess bleeding, increased swelling, and even greater pain. What position is best? Prop your head up with a pillow or sleep on a reclining chair at an angle.

#7 – Wearing Makeup

Don’t wear makeup –yet. While wearing makeup is a great way to cover up any post-surgical bruising around your nose and eyes, applying cosmetics to the healing skin and incisions can cause complications and increase your risk of infection. Steer clear of concealers, powders, and other makeup products until you are considered healed enough to use them. Talk with your facial plastic surgeon for more information on your healing time frame.

#8 – Smoking And Drinking Alcohol

Smoking and drinking alcohol are dangerous activities for any patient healing from surgery, including rhinoplasty. The nicotine in cigarettes can restrict the blood vessels and reduce blood flow to very low levels, inhibiting proper healing. Alcohol, on the other hand, can interfere with your medications and thin your blood, promoting excess bleeding. To be safest during your recovery, avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least three weeks after your rhinoplasty surgery.

#9 – Eating Hard Or Chewy Foods

Especially for the first few days wherein facial movement must be minimized,

avoid foods that need a lot of chewing. Avoid munching on fruits like apples and pears, as well as raw vegetables like carrots. Gums and steaks can be harmful too since they put a lot of pressure on the jaw. 

 #10 – Getting Constipated

Bowel movements are typically irregular right after your surgery. The condition can be quite uncomfortable, so the best way to reduce this risk is to consume foods that are rich in fiber. For the first few days, you can have oatmeal or blended smoothies made of high-fiber fruits and vegetables. If after a couple of days, you still have not had a bowel movement, you may ask your doctor about taking a mild laxative.

Remember always to ask your surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your recovery period.

Your Rhinoplasty Recovery Process

After your rhinoplasty surgery procedure, you will be sent home with a care sheet along with your pain medications. You’ll also need a friend or family member to act as your chauffeur for the day. You’ll likely feel a bit disoriented, drowsy, and maybe dizzy or nauseous after your anesthetics have begun to wear off. Take your prescribed pain medication as directed during this time and don’t miss your doses. Keep in mind that your recovery will rely on your body being rested and relaxed, so don’t create stress by being uncomfortable or in pain.

Get plenty of sleep during the first few days of your recovery. This will allow your body to heal properly. You can expect some swelling and tightness, redness and bruising, and experience some pain and discomfort. If any of these symptoms change at all, suddenly worsen, or become concerning to you, contact your facial plastic surgeon for assistance. But above all, simply follow your surgeon’s instructions for your best healing results. By avoiding the following items, you help to ensure that your nose looks its best while feeling your best.

Consult With A Nose Job Specialist For Your Procedure

Just like any other surgery, preparing for rhinoplasty can be nerve-wracking. However, feeling confident that you’ve selected the right plastic surgeon can help put you at ease. Philip Miller, MD, FACS has specialized exclusively in facial plastic surgery and offers over 20 years of experience and knowledge to his patients. A recognized expert in rhinoplasty, Dr. Miller has been frequently invited to share his specific techniques with his peers at various national facial plastic surgery meetings. He has been voted among the Best Doctors in America each year since 2007, and has also been named a Top Doctor of New York. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller, contact his office located at 60 East 56th Street, Third Floor in New York City, by calling (646) 791-3025.

Next, find out if Weight-loss could Affect your Rhinoplasty Surgery

Last Updated: 08/16/2019