When Can You Wear Your Glasses After a Rhinoplasty?
After undergoing rhinoplasty, it's important to follow your surgeon's instructions for proper healing and maintaining the shape of your nose. Typically, you won't be able to wear eyeglasses or any optical wear that rests on the bridge of your nose for about four to eight weeks.
Wearing Glasses with Nasal Splint
During the first week of recovery, there are no limitations on wearing glasses over your nasal splint. However, it is recommended to opt for lightweight eyewear to avoid putting excess pressure on the healing nasal septum.
Avoiding Direct Pressure on Nose
Once the cast is removed, it is advised to avoid wearing glasses directly on your nose for approximately four to eight weeks after surgery. If you must wear eyewear during this recovery period, make sure not to put weight on your healing nasal bones in order to prevent potential permanent damage that may require revision surgery.
The Recovery Process
- Swelling and Bruising: Expect moderate swelling and bruising after rhinoplasty. The degree of swelling varies from patient to patient, but most should recede within one or two weeks. Some residual swelling can last up to two months.
- Sleeping Position:To reduce swelling and bruising, keep your head elevated at least 45 degrees while sleeping during the first few days and weeks post-rhinoplasty.
- Cold Compresses:Your surgeon may allow you to use cold compresses around the facial tissue surrounding the nose area. However, avoid direct pressure or applying ice packs directly onto your nose as they can impair circulation.
- Water Activities:Avoid swimming, bathing, and using hot tubs until your incisions have fully healed.
Returning to Regular Activity
It is crucial to keep pressure off your nose for four to six weeks after the surgery. The healing process of nasal bones takes about six weeks, and applying reading glasses, sunglasses, or goggles on the bridge of your nose prematurely can risk causing damage due to the weight of the glasses shifting nasal bones.
