How should I prep for a rhinoplasty?

Question

My rhinoplasty is next month, and I want to know how I can prep? Should I wax my nose hairs? Should I take any specific supplement? I don't smoke or drink, and I'm not on any medications for current health conditions, although I do have mild asthma and chronic rhinitis.

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Do not wax or pluck nasal hairs before rhinoplasty because small skin injuries can increase irritation or infection risk. If trimming is needed, use a clean external trimmer only after asking your surgeon. No supplement routinely improves rhinoplasty healing, and some products increase bleeding. Give the team a complete list of vitamins, herbs, and over-the-counter products; they may ask you to stop vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo, ginseng, garlic supplements, and similar agents one to two weeks before surgery. Do not stop prescribed medicine or use aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs without the surgeon or anesthesiologist’s instructions. Your asthma and chronic rhinitis should be well controlled before anesthesia. Tell the team about recent wheezing, rescue-inhaler use, allergies, steroid sprays, or any respiratory infection, and bring your inhaler on the day of surgery. Continue saline or prescribed nasal treatment only as directed. Arrange transport and overnight help, follow fasting instructions exactly, prepare soft food and head elevation, and prioritize sleep, hydration, and adequate protein. Contact the surgical team promptly if you develop a cold, fever, worsening asthma, or sinus infection before the operation.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. I always have my patients to take Arnica and bromelain supplements 10 days before and 10 days after surgery for a total of 20 days. This can help reduce bruising and swelling. You should also have medical clearance from your primary physician. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Ali Alaiye, MD · Answer

Preparing for rhinoplasty is usually pretty straightforward. You don't need to wax or remove your nose hairs before surgery, in fact, it's better to leave them alone since they help protect the inside of the nose.
There's also no need to take any special supplements unless your surgeon recommends them. Just make sure your surgical team knows about any medications or vitamins you're taking.
Since you have mild asthma and chronic rhinitis, be sure to mention both to your surgeon and anesthesiologist. Continue your regular medications unless you're told otherwise, and let your surgeon know if you come down with a cold or notice worsening nasal symptoms before surgery.
Other than that, focus on eating well, staying hydrated, getting good sleep, and following the instructions your surgeon gives you. Those simple things can go a long way toward helping you have a smooth surgery and recovery.

How should I prep for a rhinoplasty?

Answers (3)

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