When deciding when to go back to work after any kind of plastic surgery it's important to remember that everyone's healing process is different. Rhinoplasty requires particularly careful thought as, unlike breast enlargement or tummy tuck, it’s not easy to hide the swelling and bruising.
In the first few days you’ll be swollen and bruised around your nose and eyes so you should expect to take at least two weeks off to allow your body time to begin the healing process. However, don’t be surprised if you need a longer recovery period.
Your surgeon will give you specific instructions for your recovery including any restrictions on physical activity or wearing glasses. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully, and to take it easy for a few weeks to ensure proper healing. It's a good idea to avoid any stressful situations that may interfere with your recovery.
One of the obvious considerations when returning to work after rhinoplasty is dealing with comments from colleagues. It may be possible to return to work with no facial dressings, it’s likely you’ll still be a little swollen for up to a month. Prepare yourself for other people’s reactions and decide in advance how you wish to handle social situations.
Handling comments about your rhinoplasty from colleagues at work can be tricky, but there are a few ways to handle it with grace and professionalism.
First and foremost, it’s important to remember that your decision to undergo surgery was a personal one and you are not obligated to share details about the procedure with anyone. If you feel uncomfortable discussing your surgery or any comments that are made about it, it’s okay to politely deflect the conversation or simply change the subject.
If you do choose to share information about your rhinoplasty, be honest and confident in your decision. Share your reasons for undergoing the surgery and any positive outcomes you’ve experienced. It’s also important to remember that everyone has different opinions and perspectives, so it’s okay if others don’t agree with your decision. Plastic surgery can be a sensitive topic for some people, but you don’t need to feel the need to justify your decision – it’s about what’s important to you.
In some cases, you may encounter negative or hurtful comments, even if they are well-intentioned. If this happens, it’s important to remain calm and composed. Try to address the comments directly and calmly, expressing how their words are making you feel.
Handling comments about your surgery from colleagues – or anyone else for that matter – requires tact, confidence, and a willingness to stand up for yourself. Remember to prioritise your own feelings and comfort, and don’t feel obligated to engage in any conversations that make you feel otherwise.
Of course, our goal with plastic surgery is to make you look the very best version of yourself. After a month to six weeks, your swelling will have gone down and you will be able to get back to normal life, feeling better about the way you look.