Can I exercise after rhinoplasty?

Thank you for your question. While it is typically acceptable to engage in light exercise after about two weeks, more strenuous exercise like weight lifting should wait for at least six weeks after rhinoplasty. These activities can significantly elevate your blood pressure, which in turn can increase swelling if it is done too soon. I recommend talking to your surgeon about when it is safe to return to your rigorous workout regimen based on your specific case. Allowing plenty of time for your nose to heal will minimize complications and optimize your results.

Thank-you for your question. After rhinoplasty it is highly recommended by most board certified plastic surgeons that you may return to light walking the week following your surgery. After about 4 weeks you can return to light exercise and lifting with minimal bending over. 90% of the swelling in the nose usually subsides in the first 4 to 8 weeks, although swelling in the tip can last up to a year. We allow our patients to return to their regular work outs, including heavy lifting after 10 weeks, but we ask that when they resume they allow their bodies to direct the intensity and duration of the exercise and start slow with any continuation of moderate activity.

Thanks for the great question! While it is awesome to have healthy and active patients, the issue of activity restrictions is always challenging. I generally have a 4 week plan: first two weeks are limited to walking; third week, patients can resume light cardio without heavy lifting; fourth week, patients can resume weight training, etc. I strongly recommend that all contact sports be avoided until 6 weeks or more post-op (or avoided all together). Take care and best of luck!