What are the best ways to reduce swelling after rhinoplasty or septoplasty?

Rhinoplasty postop: After rhinoplasty it is imperative to keep your head elevated and to use cool compresses. These two things will help reduce and avoid excessive edema after nasal surgery.

Follow directions: Follow your doctors directions! I usually suggest ice water soaked eye pads on the eyes and keeping your head elevated for a week. I also suggest avoiding exercise or lifting for two weeks. I give my patients arnica montana and low dose steroids after surgery as well.

Head not neck elevat: To minimize immediate postoperative swelling for the first several nights it is essential to sleep with your head elevated above the level of your heart. It is important not to tuck your chin or flex your neck which can actually make the swelling in your face worse by kinking the neck veins causing an outflow obstruction. So avoid a pillow under your head and use more of a wedge for your back/head