Skip to main content

melody

Do’s and Don’ts of Rhinoplasty

7 Do’s and Don’ts of Rhinoplasty

You’ve booked your rhinoplasty surgery, and the big day is just around the corner. Now comes the important part—preparing yourself to ensure the best possible outcome. From essential pre-surgery steps to post-op care tips, knowing what to do (and what to avoid) can make a world of difference in your experience and recovery. Here’s a complete guide on the do’s and don’ts of rhinoplasty to help you feel ready and confident for your journey ahead.

Book Your Rhinoplasty Consultation

Top Do’s and Don’ts BEFORE Rhinoplasty

How should you prepare for your rhinoplasty surgery? Here’s a comprehensive list of everything to consider before your surgery to ensure you’re fully prepared.

DO Optimize Your Diet & Lifestyle

In the weeks before your rhinoplasty surgery, optimizing your diet and lifestyle is key to preparing your body for a successful recovery. A nutrient-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can strengthen your immune system, aiding in healing. Hydration is also crucial, as water supports blood flow, which is essential for tissue repair after the surgical procedure. Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine intake, as both can raise blood pressure and interfere with healing. Small adjustments to your lifestyle, like getting enough rest and minimizing stress, will set the stage for a smoother recovery and minimize the risk of complications.

DO Plan Transportation

Since anesthesia from your nose job may leave you groggy and unable to drive safely, arranging reliable transportation in advance is critical. Enlist a trusted friend or family member to take you to and from the cosmetic surgery and ideally, have them stay with you for at least the first 24 hours after your rhinoplasty surgery. Planning your transport in advance helps avoid unnecessary stress and ensures a safe, comfortable transition from surgery to recovery.

Explore Travel Resources To Our Facility

DO Reserve Time Off Work

Taking adequate time off work or school is essential for a smooth recovery. Rhinoplasty surgery, like any surgical procedure, requires rest to allow the nasal bones to heal properly. Most patients need at least a week to ten days to recover before returning to regular activities. Reserve this time well in advance to avoid overexertion and ensure you won’t have to engage in any strenuous activities that might affect your recovery. This period also reduces the risk of infections by keeping you in a low-stress, controlled environment.

DO Ask Questions

Being well-informed helps reduce anxiety and ensures you’re fully prepared for the rhinoplasty surgery. Dr. Mourad is there to answer any questions you might have regarding preoperative preparations, the surgery itself, or aftercare. Ask about medication guidelines, potential changes to blood flow, and any risks associated with the procedure. Having clarity on each step, from preparation to recovery, will make you feel more confident and prepared, especially if you have any concerns related to your medical history.

Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Mourad

DON’T Take Certain Medications

Certain medications and supplements can thin the blood and raise the risk of complications during and after a nose job. In the weeks before surgery, avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and any medications that could increase bleeding. Herbal supplements like fish oil, garlic, and ginkgo biloba should also be stopped, as they can interfere with blood clotting. Always discuss your current medications with Dr. Mourad during your consultation so he can guide you on what’s safe, reducing your risk of complications during your cosmetic surgery.

DON’T Smoke

Smoking before and after your rhinoplasty surgery is highly discouraged, as nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow and slowing the healing process. This can increase the risk of infections and scarring, complicating your recovery. Most plastic surgeons advise patients to stop smoking at least four to six weeks before the procedure to ensure optimal healing conditions. Avoiding smoking altogether will help your nasal bones and tissues heal more effectively after the surgical procedure.

DON’T Exhaust Physical Activity

Avoid strenuous activities in the days leading up to your rhinoplasty surgery, as intense exercise can elevate blood pressure and fatigue your body, which isn’t ideal before surgery. Focus on gentle activities like walking to maintain circulation without overexerting yourself. Exhausting physical activities can increase inflammation, prolonging recovery and elevating the risk of complications. Save your energy to aid healing after your nose job and avoid any activities that could inadvertently strain the nasal bones or disrupt the recovery process.

To get a personalized plan of Do’s and Don’ts before your rhinoplasty surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Mourad.

Top Do’s and Don’ts AFTER Rhinoplasty

As you enter the recovery phase after your rhinoplasty surgery, it’s essential to carefully follow your surgeon’s instructions and stay mindful of your symptoms and healing progress. To support your recovery journey, we’ve put together a list of key “do’s” and “don’ts” to help guide you through each step.

See Post-Rhinoplasty Photos on Instagram

DO Get Plenty of Rest

Rest is essential for a successful rhinoplasty recovery. After your nose job surgery, your body needs time and energy to focus on proper healing, especially in the days immediately following the procedure. During this initial recovery period, avoid strenuous activities and keep your schedule as light as possible. Rest helps reduce nasal swelling and accelerates healing, allowing you to return to your everyday activities at a safe pace according to your rhinoplasty surgery recovery timeline. Prioritizing rest and following your facial plastic surgeon’s recovery instructions will set the foundation for a smooth and speedy recovery.

DO Keep Your Head Elevated

Keeping your head elevated, particularly during sleep, is vital in the first week after rhinoplasty surgery to control swelling and support proper blood flow. Use a few pillows or a wedge pillow to keep your head above heart level, which will help reduce fluid buildup around your nose. Elevation is especially helpful the day after surgery when nasal swelling tends to peak, and it continues to play a significant role throughout the rhinoplasty recovery timeline.

DO Follow A Healthy Diet

A balanced diet is crucial for your body’s healing process post-surgery. Aim for foods high in vitamins, antioxidants, and protein, as these nutrients aid tissue repair. Proper nutrition can also help reduce inflammation and swelling, promoting a quicker, more comfortable recovery period. Avoid foods high in salt, which can worsen swelling, and stay hydrated for overall health and healing. Following a healthy diet along with aftercare advice from your surgeon can support a steady recovery.

DON’T Blow Your Nose

Avoid blowing your nose for several weeks after the rhinoplasty procedure, as it can damage the delicate tissues in your nose during surgery. Blowing your nose prematurely can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of complications. If congestion becomes an issue, consult your facial plastic surgeon for safe remedies such as saline sprays. Refraining from blowing your nose will help ensure proper healing and preserve the results of your rhinoplasty surgery.

DON’T Wear Glasses

After a nose job surgery, it’s important to avoid placing any pressure on your nose, including from glasses. Glasses or sunglasses can strain the nasal bones and cartilage that were reshaped during rhinoplasty surgery. Most surgeons recommend waiting a few weeks before wearing glasses, or using special support to prevent direct pressure on your nose. This step helps protect the structure of your nose, allowing it to heal correctly without interference.

DON’T Rush Back To The Gym

Returning to physical activity too soon after rhinoplasty surgery can lead to complications. Strenuous exercises, contact sports, and heavy weights should be avoided until your facial plastic surgeon gives you the green light. High-impact activities can increase blood pressure and aggravate nasal swelling, which may prolong your recovery timeline. Generally, light activities can be resumed a few weeks post-surgery, but contact sports and heavy lifting may need to be delayed to prevent injury to the nose.

DON’T Hesitate To Contact Your Surgeon

If you experience unusual symptoms, heightened pain, or have questions during your recovery period, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Mourad. Follow-up appointments are critical for assessing your progress, but it’s also essential to communicate between visits if you have concerns. Your surgeon’s guidance on post-surgery care, pain medication, and aftercare advice will help you navigate any challenges and achieve a successful, comfortable recovery.

Schedule Your Rhinoplasty Consultation

Face Lift Prices: Your Guide to Costs, Options & Factors for 2025

Facelift Surgery

A facelift, medically known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance and rejuvenate the appearance of the face and neck by addressing visible signs of aging. This procedure involves tightening the underlying facial muscles, removing excess skin, and repositioning facial tissues to create a smoother, more youthful appearance. By targeting areas prone to sagging, such as the cheeks, jawline, and neck, a facelift can help reduce deep folds, minimize jowls, and eliminate loose, drooping skin that contributes to an aged look.

Face Lift Prices

Average Face Lift Prices in 2025 By Type

If you’re considering facelift surgery in 2025, a common question is, “What does a facelift cost, and what are my payment options?” On average, face lift prices at approximately $11,395 in the United States, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. However, the final cost can vary significantly based on the type of facelift, surgeon experience, and geographic location.

Here’s a breakdown of average face lift prices by type:

  • Mid-Face lift Prices: $6,000 – $12,000 — targets the cheek area for enhanced lift and contour.
  • Mini Face lift Prices: $3,500 – $8,000 — a less invasive option focusing on the lower face and jawline.
  • Full Face lift Prices: $10,000 – $20,000 — a comprehensive lift addressing the entire face and neck.
  • Deep Plane Face lift Prices: $20,000 – $30,000+ — an advanced procedure for significant lifting and definition in the mid-to-lower face.
  • Brow Lift Prices: $3,000 – $7,500 — Often combined with other facelift procedures, elevating and smoothing the forehead and brow area, reducing frown lines and restoring youth to the upper face.

Let’s explore these options in detail, along with other factors that influence the overall face lift prices for surgery in the U.S., so you can make an informed decision.

See Before & After Patient Photos on Instagram

Mid-Face Lift

A mid – facelift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the central portion of the face, specifically targeting the cheeks and areas around the nose and mouth. Unlike a traditional facelift that focuses on the lower face and jawline, a mid-facelift addresses volume loss and sagging in the mid-face region, which are common effects of aging.

As we age, the fat pads in our cheeks gradually descend due to gravity and skin laxity, leading to a flattened or hollow appearance and the formation of deep nasolabial folds. By lifting and repositioning these fat pads, a mid-facelift can restore youthful fullness to the cheeks and soften lines around the nose and mouth, creating a refreshed and natural look without significantly altering the lower face.

The mid-facelift procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, and it usually involves small incisions made along the hairline or inside the mouth to avoid visible scarring. Through these incisions, the surgeon can carefully lift and reposition the underlying cheek tissue and secure it to a more elevated position, restoring contour and volume to the mid-face. Recovery time is often shorter than with a full facelift, with most patients returning to regular activities within two weeks. Swelling and bruising are common but usually subside within this time.

For patients who want to improve their appearance without undergoing a full facelift, a mid-facelift provides a less invasive option that offers targeted improvements to the center of the face, resulting in a natural-looking rejuvenation that typically lasts several years.

Schedule A Consultation To See Your Mid-Face Lift Price

Mini-Face lift

A mini – facelift is a less invasive facial rejuvenation procedure focused on addressing early signs of aging, primarily in the lower face and jawline. Often referred to as a “weekend facelift” due to its shorter recovery time, the mini-facelift is ideal for individuals experiencing mild to moderate sagging in the lower cheeks, jawline, and chin. This procedure specifically targets the beginning stages of jowling and loose skin, providing a subtle lift that can significantly enhance facial contours without the more extensive incisions and downtime associated with a traditional facelift.

The mini – facelift procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, although some patients opt for general anesthesia for added comfort. During a mini-facelift, the surgeon makes small, discreet incisions around the ears or within the hairline, allowing them to gently lift and tighten underlying tissues and remove excess skin. Because the mini-facelift is less invasive, patients often experience reduced swelling and bruising and can resume normal activities within a week to ten days.

This procedure is a popular choice for younger patients in their 40s and 50s who are looking to refresh their appearance and slow the progression of aging, while also making it a suitable option for individuals seeking a less dramatic but noticeable improvement. The results of a mini-facelift can last up to five years, and many patients opt for this procedure to maintain a youthful look without undergoing a full facelift.

Schedule A Consultation To See Your Mini-Face Lift Price

Full Face Lift

A full facelift is a comprehensive cosmetic procedure designed to address significant signs of aging across the face and neck, offering a complete rejuvenation by targeting deep wrinkles, sagging skin, and volume loss. This plastic surgery procedure, often performed alongside a neck lift for harmonious results, addresses multiple areas of concern, including the cheeks, jawline, and neck, creating a youthful, refreshed appearance. By lifting and tightening underlying facial muscles, repositioning tissue, and removing excess skin, a full facelift smooths deep facial lines and restores definition to the jawline and neck, which are typically the most affected by aging.

Performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, the full facelift is a highly personalized procedure tailored to meet each patient’s unique goals and facial structure. During the surgery, the plastic surgeon typically makes incisions along the hairline and around the ears, allowing them to access and tighten the deeper layers of facial muscles and tissues for lasting results. Unlike mini-facelifts or other less invasive cosmetic surgeries, a full facelift provides dramatic improvements to the entire face and neck, ideal for patients experiencing advanced signs of aging.

A full facelift is often complemented by additional plastic surgery procedures, such as a brow lift or eyelid surgery, to create a balanced look. Although recovery from a full facelift takes longer than less invasive options—often two to three weeks—the results can last 10-15 years, making it one of the most enduring cosmetic surgeries available. For individuals seeking a significant transformation, this procedure, particularly when performed by a skilled board-certified plastic surgeon, offers comprehensive and natural-looking rejuvenation that addresses aging across the entire face and neck.

Schedule A Consultation To See Your Full-Face Lift Price

Deep Plane Face lift

A Deep Plane Facelift is an advanced facial plastic surgery technique designed to achieve natural and long-lasting rejuvenation by lifting and repositioning the deeper layers of facial tissue. Unlike traditional facelift procedures, which primarily focus on tightening the skin, the deep plane facelift involves working beneath the muscle layer, lifting both skin and underlying muscle in a single, cohesive layer. This approach allows for a more comprehensive lift without creating a “pulled” or overly tight appearance, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking a complete facelift that restores natural facial contours and addresses significant sagging in the cheeks, jawline, and neck.

The deep plane facelift requires extensive experience and skill, as it is more complex than other facelift techniques. Surgeons with specialized training in deep-plane techniques can reposition tissues in a way that effectively softens deep folds, such as nasolabial folds, and restores youthful volume to the mid-face and lower face. During the procedure, small incisions are typically made around the ears and along the hairline, allowing the surgeon to access and lift the deep muscle layers directly. This approach not only provides a significant, long-lasting lift but also maintains facial mobility and expression, giving the results a more natural look that can last for 10-15 years.

Patients often choose a deep plane facelift over traditional facelift procedures due to its ability to address advanced signs of aging with longer-lasting results. Because this complete facelift technique works at a deeper structural level, it delivers a more substantial and enduring lift compared to other methods. A deep plane facelift is often performed in conjunction with additional facial plastic surgery procedures, such as a neck lift or brow lift, for a fully balanced rejuvenation.

Schedule A Consultation To See Your Deep Plane Face Lift Price

Brow Lift

A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is a facial plastic surgery procedure aimed at raising the eyebrows and rejuvenating the upper face by reducing forehead wrinkles, frown lines, and sagging brows. This procedure is particularly effective for individuals experiencing facial aging in the brow and forehead area, where drooping brows and creases can create a tired or severe appearance. By lifting and repositioning the tissues around the brow and forehead, a brow lift can enhance the natural contours of the upper face and minimize signs of aging, creating a more open, youthful look that can also reduce the appearance of eye hollows.

There are several types of brow lift techniques available, ranging from traditional surgical facelifts to minimally invasive options like thread lifts. A traditional brow lift involves making small incisions along the hairline or scalp, allowing the surgeon to lift and secure the underlying tissues for lasting results. For patients who prefer a less invasive approach, thread lifts—often referred to as a type of non-surgical facelift—use dissolvable threads to lift and tighten the brow area. Although thread lifts offer a quicker recovery, they typically provide more subtle and shorter-term results compared to a surgical facelift.

For patients seeking more comprehensive anti-aging treatment, a brow lift can be combined with other procedures, such as an eyelid lift or full facelift, to address multiple signs of aging across the face. Whether performed as a standalone procedure or in conjunction with a facelift, a brow lift effectively elevates the brows and softens forehead lines, resulting in a more relaxed and refreshed appearance. Those with moderate to severe brow sagging often find that a surgical brow lift offers longer-lasting and more dramatic improvements compared to non-surgical facelift options, making it a popular choice for achieving upper facial rejuvenation.

Schedule A Consultation To See Your Brow Lift Price

Factors Influencing Face Lift Prices

When exploring the average cost of a facelift, it’s essential to understand the various factors contributing to the price. Facelift costs vary widely based on the type of facelift, including options such as mini facelifts and deep plane facelifts, as well as facility fees, anesthesia, and the experience level of the plastic surgeon. Generally, the national average for a facelift falls between $7,000 and $15,000, but this can fluctuate depending on specific patient needs, location, and additional procedures, such as neck lifts or brow lifts.

Complexity of the Procedure

The complexity and type of facelift a patient selects greatly impact the final price. A mini facelift, which targets only the lower face, typically costs less than more comprehensive options and can range between $3,500 and $8,000. In contrast, a full facelift or deep plane facelift, which involve lifting deeper tissue layers and addressing more advanced signs of aging, tend to be on the higher end of the cost spectrum.

Patients seeking revision surgeries, such as those who have had a previous facelift, may also see an increase in cost due to the additional care required to navigate existing scar tissue and achieve natural results. Qualified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in facelift procedures are often in higher demand, so their fees can reflect this expertise, contributing to the overall average price.

Operating Room and Surgical Facility Costs

Operating room expenses, or surgical facility costs, play a significant role in facelift pricing. Facility fees cover essential aspects, such as the use of specialized surgical equipment, monitoring systems, and ensuring a safe and sterile environment. State-of-the-art clinics may have higher facility fees due to their advanced technology, which often enhances patient safety and surgical outcomes.

Additionally, the length of time spent in the surgical facility directly impacts the cost. For instance, a more complex type of facelift that takes several hours to perform will naturally incur higher operating room expenses than a mini facelift, which may be shorter and less invasive. Consulting with your surgeon about specific facility fees can provide a more accurate estimate for the total cost.

Anesthesia Fees

Anesthesia fees vary depending on the type of anesthesia administered during the facelift. Patients undergoing a mini facelift, which often requires local anesthesia with sedation, generally incur lower anesthesia fees than those opting for a more comprehensive facelift under general anesthesia. General anesthesia usually requires a certified anesthesiologist, whose expertise ensures the procedure is as safe and comfortable as possible, but also adds to the overall expense. Patients can discuss anesthesia options with their qualified plastic surgeon to determine the most suitable approach for their procedure and budget.

Pre- and Post-Operative Care Costs

Beyond the surgical procedure itself, pre- and post-operative care are essential components of facelift pricing. Pre-surgery expenses often include consultation fees, medical tests, and lab work, which can vary in price depending on the patient’s health history. Post-operative care costs can also add up and typically include follow-up appointments, prescribed pain medication, and any necessary recovery aids, such as compression garments. Many patients also choose additional procedures, like eyelid lifts or skin resurfacing, which can be bundled with their facelift for a more comprehensive outcome but will increase the average cost. Health insurance typically does not cover cosmetic surgeries, so patients are responsible for these out-of-pocket expenses.

For those seeking an accurate estimate of their total facelift cost, it’s essential to consult directly with a qualified plastic surgeon. Many offer initial consultations to discuss patient goals, procedure options, and all associated costs, providing a detailed breakdown that includes average prices for the specific kinds of facelifts considered.

Choosing a Facelift Surgeon: The Cost for Quality

When it comes to selecting a facelift surgeon, balancing cost with quality and expertise is essential for achieving optimal results. Investing in a skilled, board-certified surgeon ensures that the procedure is performed with precision, artistry, and safety.

Dr. Moustafa Mourad, MD, FACS, a distinguished facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon based in New York City, exemplifies this commitment to quality. With dual board certifications from the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery (ABFPRS) and the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (ABOTO), Dr. Mourad brings extensive expertise to each patient. As a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, he upholds the highest standards in both cosmetic and complex facial procedures.