For many, winter seems like the perfect time to get a rhinoplasty. The cold weather is perfect for reducing rhinoplasty swelling. Plus, many of us get some time off during the holiday season, letting us put up our feet as we wait for the rhinoplasty recovery period to end. However, while there are certain benefits to getting a rhinoplasty procedure during the winter, there are some challenges that are unique to the chilly season. This piece will dig into the topic to find out if you need to worry about the cold weather when it comes to a rhinoplasty recovery.
Benefits of the Cold
Before we discuss some of the challenges of a winter nose job, it’s only fair that we address some of the reasons that people opt to get some nasal tip adjustment during the colder months. As mentioned, the colder weather has a soothing effect on the swelling that many people experience after facial plastic surgery. Too much sun exposure can often be a concern for those recovering from rhinoplasty surgeries. The overcast winter months tend to lessen the concern of too much sunlight.
And, as also mentioned, the winter season is the holiday season for many of us. This makes it a great chance to get some rest in the days after surgery. As far as recovery time goes, the week after the rhinoplasty is particularly important. You’ll want to make sure you take time off to rest up during this period.
Chilly Complications
So, it sounds like you have nothing to worry about if you get your rhinoplasty done in the winter, right? While it is a popular season for all the post-surgery benefits, like reducing swelling, it does come with its own challenges that you need to watch out for.
The most major concern to watch out for is dryness. The winter months can get quite dry in many regions. Dry air, and dry wind, can be very unpleasant for recovering skin, and for the inside of the nose. This might lead to peeling skin or nosebleeds after a rhinoplasty. If you live in a particularly cold area, your freshly altered nose could even be susceptible to frostbite!
Another risk associated with the winter months is that they tend to be the time when colds and flu are going around. You certainly don’t want to put the strain of blocked-up sinuses on your already sensitive nose! Aggressively blowing your nose could also be highly discomforting during this stage. This all can be made much worse by the fact that your cosmetic surgeon may forbid you from taking certain decongestants during the recovery period.
Have a Holly, Jolly Recovery Period
So does this mean that a winter rhinoplasty is a bad idea? Not at all! The benefit of reducing rhinoplasty swelling isn’t one that you can discount. Not only will this help reduce your discomfort, but will also mean that your nose will settle into its “final result” appearance faster.
Taking care of your recovering nose during the winter months doesn’t have to be complicated. First and foremost, you’ll want to try to stay out of severe chilly winds. Heading outside to enjoy the chill is nice, but make sure that you only do so more days with mild weather. Your cosmetic surgeon can also recommend you skin products to help prevent your nose from drying out.
It’s also important to stay hydrated during the colder months, so drink plenty of water. You’ll also need to be careful with what you eat as well. Hot food and drinks can warm you up, but can potentially cause the blood vessels in your recovering nose to shrink, leading to nosebleeds. As long as you watch out for these risks, you can enjoy your rhinoplasty recovery period in peace this holiday season! And if you have any other questions regarding rhinoplasty swelling or side effects, don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re always happy to give out answers.