Cold and Runny Nose After Rhinoplasty, How to Cope
The weather changes often at this time of year, so take suitable care of yourself after rhinoplasty to help the wound heal well during recovery.
However, if you get ill with a cold or a runny nose after rhinoplasty, it is important to look after yourself properly to lower other risks that may affect the surgical wound.
Having a cold or a runny nose after rhinoplasty or revision rhinoplasty can cause irritation. A runny nose and sneezing affect the pressure inside the nasal passages and the surgical wound, which may affect the new nasal structure the surgeon has created. Unsuitable care may lead to unwanted complications, such as:
- inflammation
- infection
- irritation of the nose
- slow wound healing
A cold or runny nose after rhinoplasty is not usually a cause for worry if you look after yourself properly
How to Look After Yourself When You Have a Cold or Runny Nose After Rhinoplasty or Revision
- Get enough rest and sleep. While you sleep, your body builds up its immune system and helps fight the cold virus effectively.
- Drink the right amount of water for your body. Water helps thin the mucus and ease a sore throat.
- Do not blow your nose hard. The harder you sneeze, the more pressure there is in the nasal passages, which can cause injury. Dabbing the mucus gently with a tissue or rinsing the nose with saline helps clear mucus and dirt.
- Rinse your nose with saline.
- Use cold compresses on the forehead and cheeks. Take cold medicines and decongestants only as advised by your doctor, because some medicines may have side effects.
- Wash your hands often with soap and clean water to stop the cold virus spreading.
- Avoid pollution, dust and smoke, to lower the risk of airway irritation that can trigger symptoms.
- Follow your surgeon’s advice closely.
If you have thick green or yellow mucus with a high fever, pain in the nose or bleeding, see a doctor straight away for a diagnosis and suitable treatment
Note: Revision rhinoplasty, which many people know as “nose reshaping”, is surgery for people who have had nose surgery before and need a further assessment by a surgeon. The approach to care depends on the original concern, the nasal structure and the surgeon’s judgement in each case.
