Changing Pressures and High Altitude OK 5 Weeks After Rhinoplasty?

Question

I just had a rhinoplasty and am planning to trek to Everest Base Camp starting 5-6 weeks after the surgery. Will I be sufficiently healed by then to undergo a trek like this? I am concerned about the changing pressures and high altitude. I already flew twice a week after surgery and felt completely fine.

Ivan Wayne, MD · Answer

Of course you should check with your surgeon. I would be worried about the mild loss of sensation that occurs in the tip of the nose after rhinoplasty. In the high altitude, very cold conditions of Everest you are at high risk of frost bite. You might not be able to tell that you are having a problem until it is too late. Here is a link to the story of Beck Weathers who lost his nose during a climb that went bad.
http://www.kepplerspeakers.com/speakers.aspx?name=Beck+Weathers,+MD
I am not really worried about pressure chages at 6 weeks-your nose should be healed enough.
I wish you luck and success with your climb.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

I have all of my patients take Afrin with them if they are going to altitude just in case they are not able to clear their ears or sinuses on the descent. No problem on the ascent.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

You should ask your surgeon for specific advice regarding your surgery and your situation. The main concern with strenouos activity after Rhinoplasty Surgery is a nose bleed. I will usually allow my patients to resume unrestricted activity 3 weeks after nose job surgery. Again, it is best to check with your surgeon for this specific recommendation.
I hope this is helpful for you.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Nose Surg,
You should discuss this with your surgeon.  I would advise waiting unless your goal is to become the earliest to climb Everest after rhinoplasty (don't know if there is an existing record).  Good luck with your nose and your climb.
Dr. P

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

This is relatively early and more than your nose id effected by rhinoplasty surgery. Nerve sensation and venous as well as sinus drainage patterns are altered and it is possible that you will not have adequate protective sensation as well as sustain prolonged swelling.

Changing Pressures and High Altitude OK 5 Weeks After Rhinoplasty?

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Changing Pressures and High Altitude OK 5 Weeks After Rhinoplasty?

Answers (8)

Answer: Climbing Mount Everest After Rhinoplasty

Answer: Climbing Mount Everest After Rhinoplasty

Answer: Climbing Mount Everest 5-6 Weeks After Rhinoplasty

Answer: Climbing Mount Everest 5-6 Weeks After Rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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