The period immediately following rhinoplasty is a delicate time when maintaining personal hygiene must be balanced with protecting the surgical outcome. The initial healing phase requires extreme caution to ensure the newly contoured nasal structures remain undisturbed. Following specific safety protocols when showering is necessary to prevent complications and safeguard the results of the procedure. These precautions center on keeping the external nasal splint dry, minimizing steam exposure, and avoiding any direct pressure or trauma to the face.
Determining When to Start
Most plastic surgeons advise waiting at least 24 to 48 hours after the procedure before attempting a body shower. This initial waiting period allows the patient to recover from the effects of anesthesia and for the initial surgical swelling to stabilize. When showering, the water temperature must be strictly lukewarm, not hot.
Hot water and resulting steam cause vasodilation, increasing blood flow, which can exacerbate post-operative swelling or lead to a higher risk of bleeding. Furthermore, excess moisture from steam can compromise the adhesive securing the external nasal splint, leading to it loosening prematurely. Keeping the shower duration brief minimizes steam accumulation and reduces the likelihood of post-operative dizziness or fatigue.
Protecting the Splint and Face During Body Washing
The primary goal during the first week is ensuring the external nasal splint or cast remains completely dry until its removal, typically around the seven-day mark. Wetting the splint can weaken its structure, dissolve the adhesive, and potentially harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. To protect the face, patients should stand with their back to the water spray. Use a handheld shower head exclusively to wash the body from the neck down. If a handheld shower is unavailable, the head must be tilted backward throughout the shower to direct water away from the face and hair.
Some patients secure a protective barrier, such as a plastic face shield or loosely taped plastic wrap, over the splint for added protection. Avoid excessive bending, stooping, or straining, as these movements increase blood pressure in the head and can trigger bleeding or increase swelling. Keeping the head elevated above the heart at all times, even while washing the body, is an effective measure to manage fluid retention and swelling. Gentle sponge baths are recommended for the face, cleansing only the areas surrounding the splint without disturbing the tape or incision sites.
Safe Techniques for Washing Hair
Washing hair is challenging after rhinoplasty due to the high risk of inadvertently wetting the splint or exerting pressure on the nose. Many surgeons recommend delaying a full hair wash until the splint is removed, using dry shampoo as a temporary measure to maintain freshness. If a wash is necessary, avoid the shower entirely and wash the hair in a sink or bathtub. The patient should lean their head back over the basin’s edge, mimicking the setup at a hair salon.
This backward-leaning posture is crucial because it ensures that all water and shampoo runoff flows away from the face and splint. Having a partner or assistant gently pour water over the hair and massage the scalp minimizes movement and strain on the neck and head. When selecting a hair product, use a mild, non-irritating, and fragrance-free shampoo in case any residue accidentally comes near the healing incisions. After rinsing, dry the hair gently by patting it with a soft towel rather than vigorous rubbing, which can jar the head. If using a hairdryer, limit it to the cool setting to prevent excessive heat, which can promote swelling in the delicate nasal tissues.