Rhinoplasty is commonly referred to as “nose job”. This is a popular cosmetic and medical procedure done to enhance one’s looks. Many people go for rhinoplasty to enhance the appearance of the nose. This surgery is also done to resolve breathing problems. Every surgery has certain risks, and in the case of rhinoplasty, it’s the risk of infection.
Infections after rhinoplasty surgery are rare. But they are still possible. Because of that, it is good to know about any potential infection signs. This helps you to spot the infection early for quick treatment and faster healing. If that is not done, a serious infection might result. The body needs some time to heal from surgery. You can expect some bruising. Mild discomfort and swelling are expected during your recovery period. Whenever you notice something unusual during the recovery period, contact your surgeon immediately.
The article explains the 7 key signs of infection so that you can get a smooth healing. Recovery should go smoothly as long as postoperative care instructions are followed. Still, it’s good to gather information for safety.
Signs of Infections
The following are some signs of infection that one must not ignore:
1. Increased Pain
You should expect mild discomfort after rhinoplasty surgery. Usually, pain medications are given to relieve the pain. However, if the pain worsens, that is something to pay attention to. Pain should lessen quite a bit during the first week. If it reaches sharp or throbbing intensity, then perhaps something might be wrong.
Additionally, pain traveling toward the cheek, forehead, or eyes would be dangerous. This means an infection is starting to develop. Do not ignore prolonged or unbearable pain. This is your body’s way to signal. Contact your surgeon immediately if the pain starts to increase after a few days. Timely intervention could prevent additional problems.
2. Excessive Swelling
Swelling is normal after nose surgery. It hits its peak on the second or third day. Then it goes down slowly over a few weeks. But if it suddenly worsens after improvement, be cautious.
You may have an infection if it swells more on one side than another. Also, hard, painful swelling is a warning sign. Mild swelling that stays for weeks is not bad. Severe puffiness shouldn’t last for weeks. If the nose remains swollen beyond the first week after surgery, it is a problem. Contact your doctor if the nose remains badly swollen even after the first week of surgery.
3. Unusual Redness
There will be a little redness around the nose after rhinoplasty surgery. It will spread or darken. In addition, redness that’s hot or hurts may indicate something is wrong. Red streaks around your nose or cheeks are particularly dangerous. This may indicate that an infection is spreading. Don’t hesitate; call your surgeon immediately about the worsening of the redness. Better to act quickly than to have to deal with bigger problems later.
4. Fever
A slight fever (under 100.4°F) can happen after surgery. But a high fever (over 101°F) is dangerous. Fever needs your attention if it lasts more than a day. Sweating and body pain with fever indicate that your body is suffering from an infection. Usually, fever is an indication of an infection present in the body. So do not take a fever lightly. Be alert and call your physician if you have a fever. Rest and hydration may assist, but there is also a need for antibiotics.
5. Yellow or Green Discharge
Clear and light pink discharge is normal at first. But thick yellowish-green pus is not. The discharge usually signifies an infection.
The foul smell of the discharge is not good. You must act fast and contact your surgeon if the discharge continues or increases. Thorough cleaning is necessary for an infected wound. It is also treated with antibiotics. The persistence of discharge delays recovery and leaves scars.
6. Warmth Around the Nose
Your nose may have a warm sensation after surgery because of swelling. But be alert if the warmth starts to increase or spread.
You may have an infection if the skin feels hot and appears red. Your nose should not feel much warmer than other areas. Inform your doctor if you notice unusual warmth. Treating any infection is easiest when done early.
7. Difficulty Breathing
A stuffy nose is a common complaint following rhinoplasty. Swelling inside temporarily blocks airflow. You must see if breathing is difficult even after a day or two. A completely blocked nostril may signal an infection. Proper airflow is essential for healing. Call your surgeon if breathing functions are not returning to normal.
8. Foul Smell
A foul smell coming from your nose is not normal. This often indicates that bacteria are multiplying inside.
Avoid negligence if this odor persists. Infected tissue or trapped mucus might be causing these symptoms. Your surgeon may need to examine you for abscess formation or some other pathology. Fresh wounds must not smell. Get this checked quickly.
9. Fatigue
One mostly feels tired after surgery. It is very common and natural. However, extreme fatigue along with nausea and dizziness is not right. It is usually a sign of infection following surgery. Call your doctor if it’s taking too long. Rest helps, but infections need treatment.
10. Increased Bruising
People generally get bruises around the eyes and nose. If it spreads or deepens afterward, that is dangerous.
Additionally, the appearance of new bruises days after surgery is not good. This could be representative of underlying bleeding or a skin infection. See your doctor if bruising worsens suddenly. A little care goes a long way in avoiding complications.
Final Words
Recovery from rhinoplasty surgery requires patience. Infections are rare after rhinoplasty. Knowing about signs of infection can save you. Swelling and discomfort are always expected. However, certain infection signs must not be ignored. Do not ignore increased pain, swelling, fever, or discharge. There should be no waiting to see if symptoms will clear up on their own. Follow proper aftercare immediately after rhinoplasty surgery. This reduces the chances of infections.
Additionally, keep your nose clean and avoid touching it with dirty hands. Take prescribed medications exactly as directed. Do not forget to attend all the appointments for follow-up appointments. Your surgeon has to make sure of your progress.
Rest is important for healing. Give your body the chance to heal itself. Drink lots of water and eat fruits and vegetables to help in healing. If you have any feeling that something is not right, trust it. Call your doctor when in doubt. It is always better to be safe than sorry. Most people heal with good care. Stay alert, and take care of your nose for a smooth recovery.