Congratulations on taking the big step toward a new nose! Now that surgery is behind you, you’re probably wondering how to protect your results and heal smoothly. One key part of recovery is knowing what not to do—a few missteps can delay healing or affect your outcome. Don’t worry, I’ve gathered the most important no-nos so you can breeze through recovery.
1. Avoid Strenuous Activities
What not to do after nose surgery: Skip heavy exercise, running, weightlifting, and high-impact moves.
- Any activity that raises blood pressure or jolts your body can increase swelling or trigger bleeding.
- Walking lightly is fine, but skip the gym for at least 2–3 weeks—some surgeons even advise waiting 4–6 weeks for full safety.
2. Don’t Blow or Pick Your Nose
Pressuring a healing nose can mean trouble.
- Blowing, picking, or forceful sneezing can disrupt the surgical site. Always sneeze or cough with your mouth open if needed.
- Keep soft tissues dry and intact for proper healing.
3. Stay Out of Water—No Showers or Swimming
Water and healing wounds don’t mix—at first.
- Keep the splint and tape dry. Skip showers; take gentle sponge baths until cleared.
- Avoid pools, hot tubs, and saunas for several weeks to lower infection risk and protect delicate surfaces.
4. Don’t Rest Glasses on Your Nose
Eyewear shouldn’t touch your healing nose.
- Glasses can compress tender tissue and alter results.
- Use soft cheek rests or secure glasses to your forehead for a few weeks.
5. Skip Alcohol, Smoking & Certain Meds
Reset your habits temporarily—it’s worth it.
- Alcohol thins the blood and interferes with medication; smoking reduces blood flow and delays healing. Avoid both for at least 2 weeks post-op.
- Pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and natural supplements can increase bleeding risk. Always check with your surgeon before taking anything new.
6. Limit Sun Exposure
Sunlight can lead to unwanted side effects during healing.
- UV rays may cause discoloration or impact scar healing.
- Use SPF 30+, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and avoid direct sun, especially for the first few weeks.
7. Avoid Clothes Over Your Head
Choose your wardrobe wisely to protect your nose.
- Pulling shirts or sweaters over your head can bump your nose and disrupt healing.
- Opt for front-button or zipped clothing for the first few weeks.
8. Don’t Ignore Proper Hydration and Gentle Diet
Healing includes what’s on your plate.
- Eat high-fiber foods to avoid constipation—straining can stress your nose.
- Steer clear of too-hot foods or hard-to-chew items in early recovery.
- Stay hydrated; water supports healing fast.
9. Keep Your Hands Off Your Nose
Curiosity is natural, but patience is crucial.
- Avoid touching or pressing on your nose—manipulation may disrupt delicate tissue healing.
10. Don’t Skip Follow-Up Appointments
Your surgeon’s check-ins are not just formalities—they keep you safe.
- Follow-up visits help remove splints, monitor healing, and catch issues early. Skipping them risks complications or delayed recovery.
Helpful Summary Table
| Don’t Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Strenuous activities | Prevents swelling or bleeding |
| Blowing/picking nose | Protects nasal structure |
| Water exposure | Reduces infection and splint damage |
| Glasses on nose | Protects tissue and maintains surgical results |
| Alcohol & smoking | Promotes healthy blood flow and healing |
| Certain medications | Avoids excessive bleeding |
| Sun exposure | Prevents discoloration and scar issues |
| Pullover clothing | Avoids accidental nasal pressure |
| Touching the nose | Prevents disruption or shifting of healing tissues |
| Skipping check-ups | Ensures proper healing and early intervention if needed |
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning or recovering from a nose surgery, focusing on what not to do can help you heal smoothly and protect your beautiful results. Avoiding these common pitfalls—and following your surgeon’s advice—sets you up for a healthier recovery and lasting satisfaction.
