What anti-swelling medicines can I take to temporarily reduce my rhinoplasty swelling?

Question

I've been taking Arnica given to me by a doctor and it seems to keep the swelling at the tip of my nose down a little more. Is there anything else that may work better? ...To keep my swelling down until it permanently goes down?

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Asianrhinoplasty,Arnica is what I recommend to my patients in order to reduce swelling. I also strongly suggest keeping your head elevated as much as possible, including in your sleep, using cold compressions, and eating foods such as pineapple that helps reduce swelling. Arnica cream is also an option. You must remember that swelling in the nose after rhinoplasty can last up to 1 year, so please be patient. Hope this helps!Dr. Ali Sajjadian

Todd C. Miller, MD · Answer

Arnica is a good option which can help swelling. Icing the nose can also help bring down swelling. Sleeping with your head elevated, eating a low salt diet, and avoiding strenuous activity can all help facilitate resolution of swelling. Make sure to follow up with your surgeon to ensure that you are healing normally.

Mark Petroff, MD · Answer

Patience is key when recovering from a rhinoplasty. Unfortunately, there is not a 'quick fix' in regards to the swelling associated with rhinoplasty.  I would recommend speaking directly to your surgeon as to what medications you can safely take at this point in your recovery.  Good luck to you as you continue to heal.Mark Petroff, MD

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Asianrhynoplasty, I would continue the arnica as prescribed by mouth until finished and then topically if okay with your surgeon. Sleep elevated, avoid heat, exercise and salty foods to help reduce the swelling. Last but not least "patience is a virtue" when it comes to tip swelling this soon after rhinoplasty. Wishing you a speedy recovery! Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

You didn't say how long post-op you are, but I would suggest not taking anything that your surgeon did not give you or suggest to you.  You can do things like avoid salt, use ice or arnica to try to keep the swelling down. As for other medications, speak with your surgeon.

What anti-swelling medicines can I take to temporarily reduce my rhinoplasty swelling?

Answers (5)

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