Postoperative care for the patient following rhinoplasty begins with the taping, packing, and splinting of the nose. In the immediate postoperative period the patient is encouraged to rest with the head in an elevated position, to take fluids by moutn, and to apply ice water compresses to the eyes. An analgesic sufficiently potent to ablate the pain as well as an evening sedative is prescribed, if needed. The systemic administration of enzymes, antibiotics, and steroids is not utilized by the authors in the postoperative care of rhinoplasty patients. Careful attention to maintaining the position of the nasal dorsum and the removal of any hematoma is essential in the first two postoperative weeks. During the first year following rhinoplasty, participation in contact sports and exposure to the sun are discouraged.