Rhinoplasty—commonly known as nose surgery—can refine facial balance, improve breathing, or correct nasal irregularities. But successful results begin well before the operation. Careful preparation helps your body heal faster, reduces complications, and ensures that your recovery feels smoother and more predictable.
At his Beverly Hills practice, expert facial plastic surgeon Dr. Benjamin Swartout provides every patient with detailed rhinoplasty pre-op instructions and personalized guidance. Knowing what to expect before your procedure helps you feel confident and ready.
Rhinoplasty Prep Highlights
- Proper preparation before rhinoplasty improves healing and safety.
- Meet with Dr. Swartout early to discuss timing, scheduling, and expectations for surgery.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and blood-thinning medications before surgery.
- Prepare your recovery space and follow pre-op instructions carefully.
- A clear plan supports better rhinoplasty results and a smoother recovery.
Your First Steps in Rhinoplasty Preparation
Clarify Your Goals
Before beginning your rhinoplasty plan, take time to define what you’d like to achieve. Do you want to refine the nasal tip, straighten the bridge, or improve breathing? Understanding your goals helps your surgeon create a treatment strategy that aligns with your expectations and facial proportions.
Choose the Right Surgeon
Selecting a qualified facial plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Dr. Swartout’s extensive experience in cosmetic procedures and reconstructive nose surgery ensures a customized approach that enhances your features while preserving nasal function. Always review credentials, before-and-after photos, and patient reviews to confirm expertise and trust.
Plan Your Timing and Budget
Rhinoplasty is a delicate plastic surgery procedure requiring adequate downtime for recovery. Plan your schedule around at least one to two weeks off work and allow a few weeks before attending major events. Discuss surgical fees, facility costs, and anesthesia options during your consultation to plan financially and logistically.
What to Expect at Your Rhinoplasty Consultation
Your consultation is more than just an appointment—it’s the foundation of your rhinoplasty journey. During this visit, Dr. Swartout will:
- Examine nasal structure, breathing function, and skin quality
- Discuss desired outcomes and explain the rhinoplasty procedure
- Review your medical history, medications, and allergies
- Outline your customized surgical plan and pre-op instructions
This is the time to ask questions about anesthesia, healing expectations, or the overall timeline. The better informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel heading into surgery.
Before & After Photos
*Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
Pre-Op Instructions: Medical and Lifestyle Guidelines
Following your surgeon’s rhinoplasty pre-op instructions is essential for safety and smooth healing. In the weeks before surgery, patients typically receive guidelines covering the following:
Medical Adjustments
- Review medications: Stop taking blood thinners, aspirin, and certain herbal supplements two weeks before surgery. Discuss all prescriptions with your surgeon.
- Address chronic conditions: Ensure sinus or allergy issues are under control to reduce congestion and swelling.
- General anesthesia clearance: A routine medical exam may be required before surgery to ensure you’re healthy for anesthesia.
Lifestyle Changes
- Stop smoking: Avoid nicotine and vaping for at least four weeks before and after surgery to protect blood flow and tissue healing.
- Avoid alcohol: Alcohol thins the blood and can increase bruising or dehydration.
- Sleep and hydration: Adequate rest and water intake improve your body’s ability to recover.
Nutrition
A diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables strengthens immunity and supports collagen repair. Avoid high-sodium foods that can contribute to swelling.
Skin Care and Topical Creams
Keep your skin clean and well-moisturized in the week before surgery. Avoid harsh exfoliants, retinoids, or strong topical creams that may irritate the skin around the nose.
Sinus Readiness
If you experience congestion or allergies, use saline sprays or antihistamines as advised. Breathing comfortably through your nose after surgery depends on healthy nasal passages beforehand.
Healthy Habits in the Week Before Rhinoplasty Surgery
The week before rhinoplasty is when your preparation becomes most important. Dr. Swartout recommends the following steps for a safe and calm surgical experience:
- Avoid new medications or supplements not approved by your surgeon.
- Focus on nutrition and hydration to support tissue strength and the healing process.
- Prepare your recovery space: Stock up on soft foods, ice packs, gauze, and extra pillows to keep your head elevated.
- Plan transportation and care: You’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours post-surgery.
A smooth surgery recovery begins long before you arrive at the operating room. Having everything ready ensures comfort and peace of mind when you return home.
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The Day Before Surgery: Final Checklist
The day before surgery is about calm, organization, and preparation. Here’s a concise plan to follow:
- Set your alarm early: Being punctual reduces stress and keeps surgery on schedule.
- Shower the night before: Wash your face and hair thoroughly, removing all makeup and products. Clean skin reduces infection risk.
- Avoid food or drink after midnight: Fasting is essential before general anesthesia.
- Confirm your arrival time: Double-check your surgery time and any remaining paperwork with the surgical center.
- Remove jewelry, piercings, and nail polish: These can interfere with monitoring equipment.
- Take any approved prescriptions with a small sip of water if your surgeon advises.
Packing and Shower Tips for Surgery Day
On the morning of your nose surgery, keep things simple. Bring:
- Photo ID and insurance information
- Prescriptions or a list of medications
- Lip balm and soft tissues
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with front buttons
- A small pillow for the ride home
Avoid makeup, perfumes, and hair products. Take another light shower if instructed, and arrive at your appointment with a clean face and dry hair. Dr. Swartout’s team will guide you through anesthesia prep and ensure you’re comfortable before the rhinoplasty procedure begins.
Why Choose Dr. Swartout, Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon?
Dr. Benjamin Swartout is a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty and facial rejuvenation. Known for his meticulous technique and natural results, he combines medical precision with artistic insight.
Patients choose Dr. Swartout because of his:
- Comprehensive pre-op and post-op care that prioritizes patient safety
- Advanced surgical techniques for balanced, natural-looking noses
- Personalized communication and transparency throughout the healing process
- Reputation for happy patients and lasting, confident results
When performed by an experienced surgeon, rhinoplasty enhances both form and function—improving facial harmony, breathing, and confidence.
Begin Your Rhinoplasty Plan with Dr. Swartout
A successful rhinoplasty depends on preparation, clear instructions, and trust in your surgeon. When you’re ready to explore your options, schedule a private consultation with Dr. Swartout in Beverly Hills. His expertise and compassionate care help ensure your rhinoplasty procedure delivers confident, lasting results.
