How Do I Minimize Bruising from a Rhinoplasty?

Thank you for your question. With the latest Piezo technique, we expect minimal bruising after rhinoplasty surgery. However, some patients with sensitive skin still get bruised after their operation. I recommend keeping your head elevated for 4-5 days after the surgery which significantly helps reduce swelling and bruising. Eating pineapple, drinking pineapple juice, and applying ice also help with bruising and swelling. I ask my patients to stop taking blood thinning medication such as aspirin and stop drinking herbal teas including green tea 10 days before their surgeries to eliminate bruising as well. Make sure you listen to the directions your surgeon gives you carefully. This will help your recovery process. Good luck.

Bruising is a common concern after rhinoplasty. The extent of the bruising often depends on the type of surgical approach your surgeon chooses to take for your rhinoplasty. Oral arnica is a supplement that may help reduce the amount of bruising, and I usually advise my patients who are interested in trying this to take it for a week after surgery. Avoiding alcohol the week prior to surgery can also help reduce bruising. Additionally, I advise my patients to avoid medications that can thin the blood such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen, also known as Advil, and naproxen, also known as Aleve), aspirin, and Excedrin (which contains aspirin) for 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery to decrease the risk of bruising. 

Gary Linkov, MD
Rhinoplasty Specialist
Manhattan