How long after rib cartilage rhinoplasty can I take a shower?
Disease description:
I am a 28-year-old female who recently underwent rib cartilage rhinoplasty and I am very concerned about post-operative care. My doctor mentioned that I should avoid getting the wound wet, but did not specify how long this precaution should last. I am worried about accidentally getting the wound wet while showering and would like to know how long after rib cartilage rhinoplasty it is safe to take a shower.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Lu
It is generally recommended to wait 10 to 15 days after rib cartilage rhinoplasty before taking a shower.
Rib cartilage rhinoplasty is a complex cosmetic surgical procedure that involves harvesting cartilage from the patient's own ribs to reshape the nose. The postoperative recovery period is very important, and proper care can reduce the risk of infection and promote healing. Usually, doctors will advise avoiding contact of the surgical site with water for a period after surgery to prevent infection and interference with the healing process.
The timing of when one can shower after rib cartilage rhinoplasty mainly depends on how well the wound is healing. Generally, most patients can consider showering 10 to 15 days after surgery, although this must be determined based on the individual patient's physical condition and recovery progress. If the patient's physical condition is good and recovery is fast, showering may be considered around day 10 postoperatively; however, if wound healing is delayed or improper care has been given, it may be necessary to wait until about 15 days after surgery.
When showering, opt for a shower rather than a bath or soaking in a tub to prevent wound infection. Avoid splashing water directly onto the surgical site. If sutures have already been removed, it is still advisable to wait two to three days before showering. Additionally, avoid wearing glasses for a short period after surgery to prevent pressure on the nose.
