Skiing after a rhinoplasty: is It possible, and what should you watch for?
As the days get shorter, many people are booking their winter sports holiday. Around this time of year, I regularly get asked: "Can I still get a rhinoplasty before my ski trip, and when can I hit the slopes again?" In this article, I explain what to keep in mind, from ski goggles to cold weather and altitude.
Why skiing is different from other sports
In my article on sports, flying and sun exposure after a rhinoplasty, I explain that contact sports are only advisable again after about three months. Skiing and snowboarding fall into the same category: you can fall, get hit by a branch or pole, or collide with someone else on the slope. The cartilage and bone in your nose need that time to become sturdy enough to withstand an impact.
Ski goggles: pressure on a nose that's still healing
Ski goggles, like regular glasses, rest on the bridge of the nose. In the first weeks after surgery, while the bone and cartilage are still healing, that pressure can affect the result or simply feel uncomfortable. Once your nose has healed sufficiently (allow around six to eight weeks for light pressure, longer for a full day on the slopes), ski goggles generally pose no more of a problem than regular glasses.
Cold, dry air and altitude
The air on the slopes is cold and dry, which can further dry out and irritate the inside of your nose, already more sensitive after surgery. A saline nasal spray can offer relief. Altitude itself isn't a problem for your nose, though the combination of exertion and dry air may put slightly more strain on it than you're used to; so build up gradually.
Sun protection on the slopes
Snow reflects a large portion of sunlight, meaning UV exposure on the slopes is often higher than you'd expect. The skin of your nose is temporarily more sensitive to discolouration after a rhinoplasty. So use a high-factor sunscreen regardless of the weather, and be sure to apply it to your nose.
Getting a rhinoplasty now for a ski trip later this season
Since most winter sports holidays fall in December, January or February, getting a rhinoplasty now, in autumn, can still work out well: allow at least three months before you can responsibly hit the slopes again. If you want to be sure your timeline is realistic, we can look at that together during the consultation.
Frequently asked questions about skiing after a rhinoplasty
Can I wear ski goggles right after surgery?
No, wait at least six to eight weeks before wearing ski goggles, and longer if you plan to ski a full day. Discuss this during your follow-up appointment.
When can I go skiing again after a rhinoplasty?
Allow around three months, similar to other sports with a fall risk. This can vary from person to person.
Is altitude a problem for my nose after surgery?
Not directly, but the combination of dry air and exertion may cause a bit more irritation. A saline nasal spray can help with this.
Do I need to pay extra attention to sun protection on the slopes?
Yes, snow reflects a lot of UV light. Use a high protection factor, including on your nose.
Not sure if the timing works for your holiday?
Send your details and photos through the contact form, and we'll look together during a consultation at what's possible and what a realistic timeline looks like for your winter sports trip.