Posted by Dr. Anil R. Shah

Working out after rhinoplasty is possible after 2 or 3 weeks minimum with light exercises first

Exercise after rhinoplasty can be a tricky subject. It is important to understand the healing process and what activities are safe to do in the weeks following surgery. Rhinoplasty Chicago is a plastic surgery procedure that reshapes the nasal bones and cartilage to improve the appearance of the nose.

It’s very common for patients to ask their plastic surgeon when can I work out after a nose job surgery. The answer to this question depends on the individual patient and their healing process. Generally, it is recommended that patients wait at least two weeks before engaging in any physical activity. During this time, patients should focus on rest to ensure proper healing. Two weeks after surgery, light activities such as walking or stretching can be done but should be done with caution. Patients need to take time off from strenuous activities to allow their nose time to heal properly.

In general, most patients are able to return to activity after one week. Patients can exert 25% effort the first week, 50% effort the second, 75% the third week, and can resume 100% of activity by the fourth week.

This article will discuss when it is safe to work out after rhinoplasty and what types of activities should be avoided during the healing process.

1. Walking and light jogging

Light walking or jogging is considered safe to do after rhinoplasty. However, you should start with short walks — no more than 15 minutes — then gradually increase your time and distance as your body feels comfortable.

Days after surgery, it is important to continue light exercises such as walking and stretching. These activities help promote blood circulation and prevent the formation of blood clots. It is also important to avoid any strenuous activities that could cause additional swelling or damage to the delicate blood vessels in the nose.

As you progress in your recovery, you can gradually increase your activity level until you can return to your normal routine. However, it is important to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. With proper care and attention, you should be able to enjoy a full recovery from a Chicago nose job with minimal complications.

2. Swimming

Swimming is a great way to exercise both before and after rhinoplasty. This type of exercise allows the patient to work their entire body without putting extra pressure on the nose. Avoid strenuous swimming that involves the use of dives, jumps, and turns.

3. Bike riding

Cycling is also a great form of low-impact exercise for post-rhinoplasty patients. Just like with any other activity, riders should be sure not to engage in any activities that involve sudden jerks or pushing the body too hard, but gentle bike rides are often tolerated by most people with minor aftereffects such as pain and swelling around the nasal area.

4. Lifting weights

You can lift weights 6 weeks after rhinoplasty 

Weight lifting is best avoided until at least 6 weeks after rhinoplasty or until given the go-ahead from your surgeon at follow-up appointments. If weight training resumes while swelling remains it can cause further strain on already delicate facial structures leading to complications during recovery such as bruising and scarring.

Heavy lifting should be avoided after rhinoplasty as it can increase blood pressure and disrupt the blood flow to the nose, which can interfere with the healing process. Patients should avoid lifting objects, even small children, over ten pounds, and limit vigorous sexual activity in this initial phase. Additionally, heavy lifting can put a strain on the surgical procedures used during a rhinoplasty, which could lead to complications during recovery. 

5. Yoga

Yoga is beneficial when done correctly after surgery, limiting extensive movement that causes stress specific to the treated area of ​​the nose during recovery time will prevent further damage or complications associated with rhinoplasty surgery. Avoiding poses involving back bends or those in which the arms strain against a wall is recommended until full healing has occurred to decrease the risk of infection and inflammation due to swelling around the operated area of ​​the nose.

6. Aerobic exercises

Considered high-intensity activities that require a full range of motion throughout the body, cardio exercises such as running or intensive sports are off-limits when recovering from a nose job Chicago since they put too much unnecessary strain on fragile tissues surrounding treated areas causing abnormalities in shape after surgery has healed completely.

7. Pilates

Because this practice focuses mainly on core strength yet allows for controlled balance using only slow gradual motions, pilates is perfectly safe for post-rhinoplasty patients who wish to continue exercising without risking extra stress on their noses.

8. Contact sports

You need to wear headgear if you are planning to do contact sports after rhinoplasty 

When it comes to contact sports after rhinoplasty, you need to be very careful. Contact sports can put a lot of strain on the nose and face, putting your recovery at risk.

It’s best to wait 4-6 weeks after surgery before participating in any contact sport or strenuous exercise. The frame of the nose is still healing and malleable during this time. During the first four weeks, a special splint will be protecting the area so you want to limit activity that could cause injury or stress in this area until the splint is removed.

If you do end up engaging in intense exercise or playing contact sports after rhinoplasty, there are ways to minimize the risk of injury. Wearing protective headgear is essential for cushioning any blows that may happen and stabilizing the nose against any external pressure or force. Taking extra safety precautions like pads and goggles can also help prevent facial trauma due to fewer direct hits and impacts on the face.

It is important to remember that a nose job is major surgery and should be treated as such. Moderate activities are recommended for post-rhinoplasty patients, as any heavy exercise during your working out after rhinoplasty can increase swelling and healing time. Additionally, it is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding physical activity after nose surgery to ensure a successful recovery process.

Schedule a rhinoplasty consultation with us

Are you considering nose surgery? At Anil Shah Facial Plastic Surgery, we understand the importance of being able to return to your normal activities such as going to the gym after rhinoplasty. Our experienced rhinoplasty surgeon is dedicated to providing you with the best care and results. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your desired look with a nose job in Chicago and get back to your normal activities in no time!


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