I drank alcohol after rhinoplasty. Will it affect my outcome?

Question

Hi.. I had a nose operation about three and a half weeks ago - Ive been drinking quite a bit in the last week because of some social events.. my nose hurts today. Would I hurt/damage the nose and its healing? Would it effect the results.. I understand its not good for swelling purposes. But I'm scared it will affect the outcome. I emailed my surgeon a few days ago and he didnt reply and now I'm feeling a bit panicky.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Drinking alcohol after a rhinoplasty will not affect the outcome unless you got drunk, got into a fight, and got punched in the nose.

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

You do not want to drink alcohol after surgery since this can cause more swelling and bruising. You really should stay away from any sort of caffeine products for at least a week or so. Do not do any strenous work for at least 3-4 weeks post op just to make sure everything is healing properly and also again for swelling or bruising. If anything you should consult your surgeon to go over any sort of questions that you may have.

Sirius K. Yoo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  After the initial period where bleeding is a concern (about 2 weeks), alcohol consumption in moderation will not affect the outcome of your rhinoplasty.  Just be careful not to bump your nose when your senses and balance may be impaired.  At 3.5 weeks, you may still have some instability to the nasal structure.  All the best!

Guillermo Koelliker, MD · Answer

I take a very conservative approach about alcohol after any cosmetic procedure.  We all know it causes inflammation as well as does caffein.  3-4 weeks post op maybe depending on extent of surgery.  Especially rhino as things will be unstable. Try not to do excess exercise and stay cool.  This is one of the reasons we like our patients to stay at our private retreat in San Miguel de Allende because of the cool mountain air. Our menus are based on anti-inflamatory food and drinks. They serve fresh pineapple water with lunch.

Kristina Tansavatdi, MD · Answer

Limiting alcohol intake for about 1 week after surgery is critical for decreasing bruising and swelliing. However, at this point you should be fine to drink and it should not affect your results.

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I drank alcohol after rhinoplasty. Will it affect my outcome?

Answers (6)

Answer: Drinking alcohol after rhinoplasty or facelift?

Answer: Drinking alcohol after rhinoplasty or facelift?

Answer: Alcohol intake after rhinoplasty

Answer: Alcohol intake after rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.