Does cold air help minimize swelling of the nose?

Question

I'm 8 days post op. It is very cold outside, I'm wondering if being outside in the extremely cold air can help to minimize the swelling of my nose?

Waleed Ezzat, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. You’ll likely be better off gently applying a cold compress to the swollen area rather than standing outside in the cold to reduce swelling. Cold winter air is also very dry, which can cause nosebleeds and other uncomfortable effects. You should begin to see an improvement in swelling over the next several days. Otherwise, check in with your plastic surgeon.
Best of luck.
  
-Dr. E

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

It may help some, but keep in mind, it can take up to one year for your final results. You need to have patience with your body as it begins to heal. The skin, bone and cartilage are all traumatized during surgery. Inflammation (swelling) is the normal response and will help your nose to heal and look beautiful in the end. Right now, concentrate on other things you like to do and let your nose take its time to heal. I hope this helps.

Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS · Answer

Cold air may help reduce swelling somewhat, however, it's not necessary to spend alot of time outside. Your nose and surrounding areas are going to be swollen for a while and you should be consulting the surgeon that performed the procedure but give yourself some time before going back in so some of it can subside. It can take up to a year for final results.
Sincerely,
Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

It takes months to a year to see your final result.  Cold weather is definitely better for controlling swelling than the heat of the summer.

Does cold air help minimize swelling of the nose?

Answers (4)

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