How Can I Prepare for My Rhinoplasty?

By The Office of Dr. Haena Kim | August 2, 2021

3 Minute Read: 

At-home preparation is one of the most critical aspects of your plastic surgery journey. Before undergoing any facial surgery, specifically rhinoplasty, some steps need to be taken. Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) or other facial surgeries can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that these surgeries are common and relatively straightforward.

Believe it or not, the patient has a lot of control over how the recovery process goes. 

Doctor touching patient with nose bandage's nose

How to Prepare for My Rhinoplasty

1. Stop Taking Certain Medications

One of the most important things to do before undergoing rhinoplasty is to stop taking certain medications. Dr. Kim recommends stopping all non-prescription medication two weeks before your surgery. She also recommends avoiding anti-inflammatory medications (Advil®, ibuprofen, Aleve®, naprosyn, aspirin) which can thin your blood, increasing your risk of surgical complications. Additionally, some herbal supplements can also be blood thinners.

If you have any issues that require pain medication control, TYLENOL® is allowed. If you require additional medication, Dr. Kim will discuss what is acceptable to use prior to your surgery.

During your rhinoplasty consultation, discuss the medications you are on with Dr. Kim. She will advise what you should stop taking for the surgery.

2. Stop Drinking and Smoking

Similar to some medications, alcohol and smoking can thin out your blood and cause surgery and healing complications. 

You should ideally stop drinking two weeks before your procedure and stop smoking at least three months prior to surgery. You will also need to abstain from both smoking and drinking post-surgery until Dr. Kim clears you. The nicotine in smoking constricts blood vessels and this can significantly impact the healing process. 

It is not unusual for Dr. Kim to require complete smoking cessation after surgery. 

3. Prep the Night Before

There are a couple of things you should do the night before your surgery to ensure you are in the best position for your procedure. 

This includes:
  • Eating a light wholesome, nutritious dinner — stop all eating by 10 pm the evening before the surgery, and no liquids after midnight the evening before surgery
  • Getting a full night’s rest — this is something that should be done for a full week before surgery as you want to be well-rested
  • Washing your face
  • Washing your hair — you should not get your bandages wet immediately after surgery, which makes shampooing your hair difficult
  • Filling your prescriptions before the surgery, if possible. You will receive prescriptions for post operative pain control and antibiotics at your pre op visit, approximately two weeks before your surgery
  • Putting out loose, comfortable clothing — make sure your shirt buttons up or has a wide neckline so it will be easy to remove without hitting the nose 

4. Arrange Post-Op Help

When you come out of your procedure, the only thing you should be worrying about is your recovery.

To make this time as smooth as possible, make sure you arrange for some help post-operation. 

This includes:
  • Having a ride home after surgery
  • Having someone spend at least the first night with you monitoring you
  • Having help with cooking, cleaning, and running errands
  • Having someone take care of your children

Dr. Haena Kim Can Help

If you are ready for the face you have always dreamed of, book a rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Haena Kim today. Dr. Kim specializes in facial and reconstructive plastic surgery, including rhinoplasty. Dr. Kim even offers ethnic rhinoplasty, such as that for Asian patients.

Book your consultation today to find out if rhinoplasty will achieve your goals, as well as have any questions and concerns addressed. Schedule a consultation today.

Posted in Rhinoplasty