Rhinoplasty, an I swim in the pool afterwards?

Question

I'm having rhinoplasty in three weeks. I'm a teacher, so I'm off for the next month and a half. We have a pool, and I'd like for my kids to be able to swim during my recovery. I do not tan, so my plan is to stay in the shade and watch my children. Is it okay to be outside in the heat, but not exposed to the sun? I don't want to hinder my healing or results, but I also want my children to enjoy their summer.

Richard W. Westreich, MD · Answer

Generally speaking it is safe to swim after 2 weeks. However, the chlorine can be very irritating and areas inside the nose may be raw, so I tell patients to wait 1 month. If it burns, wait an extra 2 weeks.

Deepak Raj Dugar, MD · Answer

Hello,
The first 6 weeks of the healing process are the most important. Depending on how hot it is in your area really affects this decision. The heat can prolong the healing process so I wouldn't be outside for longer than a half hour if the temperature is above 80 degrees. Consult your doctor after the three weeks to see if pool time will be safe. 
All the best!
Deepak Dugar, MDScarless Rhinoplasty ExpertBeverly Hills, CA 90210

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

Staying under shade next to a swimming pool is safe during healing from a rhinoplasty. The only concern is that heat related sweating might loosen the nasal splint and it can come off prematurely. To avoid that use ice packs while sitting outside in the heat. RegardsDr Janjua

Thomas J. Walker, MD, FACS · Answer

I generally recommend to avoid sweating and strenuous activities after rhinoplasty for 4-6 weeks. Although the heat will not affect the long-term results, it may slow down the resolution of nasal swelling. With regards to swimming, you should discuss with your surgeon as to when it is safe to swim (without submerging the head under water). I typically recommend to avoid swimming in a commercial grade clean swimming pool for at least 2-4 weeks after surgery due to the risk of infection. One should avoid swimming in natural bodies of water for at least 6 weeks after surgery. Best wishes!

Robert Graper, MD · Answer

Once the incisions have healed being submerged in a pool is ok but being in the heat with a recent surgery will cause vasodilation and make the swelling last longer. I would definitely not be in the heat for the first week as this can cause bleeding and a trip back to the OR. Be safe and cautious for the first three weeks. Good luck.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I think that as long as you wear sun block and stay out of the sun, you should be ok. Best to review with your surgeon first.

Geoffrey W. Tobias, MD, FACS · Answer

The healing process in the four weeks after your rhinoplasty is an important time to limit some of your activities. The main issue will be to avoid a nose bleed. I would say entering a swimming pool slowly through the steps and not diving into it would be OK. However NO DIVING in the water is advisable. In addition I would not attempt to swim underwater during this time. Its OK to cool off by gently walking around in the shallow end of the pool. Obviously doing laps would not be a good idea. 
As far as exposure to the sun that should be OK as long as you frequently reapply sunscreen                (at least 50 SPF) and wear a visor.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Most likely, you will have a cast on your nose for the first week which should not get wet. That said, you can still sit under the shade outside. Best to avoid intense heat and exercise which will make the nose more swollen. After the cast has been removed, it is acceptable to go swimming in the pool  as  long  as you're not exercising for two weeks. Best not to raise your heart rate or blood pressure for two weeks after the surgery to prevent a nosebleed.

Rhinoplasty, an I swim in the pool afterwards?

Answers (8)

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