Preparing for rhinoplasty involves more than simply choosing a date for your procedure. Proper preparation supports safe healing and helps ensure you know what to expect before and after surgery.

This article provides general information about preparation steps commonly discussed during consultation with a qualified surgeon.

 Do’s: General Considerations Before Rhinoplasty

1. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

A balanced diet and healthy lifestyle can support recovery.

Your surgeon may discuss specific nutritional advice before surgery, including adequate hydration, limiting alcohol, and avoiding smoking.

Maintaining overall wellness helps your body prepare for anaesthesia and healing.

2. Plan Transportation and Support

Patients are generally advised not to drive immediately after surgery.

Arrange for a responsible adult to take you home and, if possible, stay with you for the first few days following your procedure to assist with basic tasks.

3. Plan Time Away From Work

Recovery after rhinoplasty typically requires time off work and social activities.

Many patients plan for around 10–14 days of rest, depending on the nature of their surgery and individual healing rates.

Avoid strenuous activity or exercise until your surgeon advises that it is safe to resume.

4. Prepare Your Home Environment

Before surgery, prepare supplies you may need afterward—such as cold compresses, supportive pillows, prescribed medications, and soft foods.

Keeping these items ready helps you rest comfortably during the early recovery phase.

 Don’ts: What to Avoid Before Rhinoplasty

5. Avoid Wearing Make-Up or Skincare Products on Surgery Day

On the day of surgery, your skin should be clean and free from cosmetics, lotions, or sunscreen to reduce the risk of infection.

6. Avoid Certain Medications and Supplements

Some over-the-counter medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen (NSAIDs), vitamin E, and certain herbal supplements such as Arnica or fish oil, may increase bleeding risk or interfere with anaesthesia.

Your surgeon will review which medications to avoid and when to stop taking them.

7. Stop Smoking and Nicotine Use

Smoking affects blood flow and can delay healing.

Most surgeons advise patients to stop smoking well before surgery and throughout recovery.

If you need help quitting, speak with your general practitioner before your procedure.

8. Discuss Questions or Concerns Early

Before surgery, raise any questions during your pre-operative consultation.

Your surgeon will explain the procedure, potential risks, recovery expectations, and follow-up process so that you have all the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Consultation with Dr Shahidi

Dr Shahram Shahidi

BSC(MED)(HON I) MB BS(SYD) FRACS FAAFPS

MED0001167352

Specialist Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose and Throat) – Head and Neck Surgeon

Member, Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

Dr Shahidi is an Australian-trained and qualified specialist with more than 20 years of experience in nasal surgery.

During consultation, he will assess your medical history and nasal anatomy, outline procedural details, discuss possible risks, and provide pre- and post-operative guidance tailored to your needs.

Disclaimer:

All surgical and invasive procedures carry risks. Individual results vary. Before proceeding, patients are encouraged to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.