The healing face: Evaluating the impact of face yoga on postoperative edema and ecchymosis following septorhinoplasty.

Septorhinoplasty is commonly followed by edema and ecchymosis, which, although temporary, may reduce patient satisfaction and delay return to daily activities. Pharmacologic and physical methods are used to minimize these sequelae, but evidence for facial exercises is limited. To investigate the effect of face yoga on postoperative edema, ecchymosis, and discoloration after septorhinoplasty. In this prospective controlled study, 70 patients were assigned to either the face yoga group or the control group. The face yoga group (n = 43) performed standardized exercises twice daily for 14 days in addition to routine postoperative care, while the control group (n = 27) received only standard care with cold compresses. Outcomes were assessed on postoperative days 1, 7, and 14 using the Totonchi et al. grading system by four blinded otolaryngologists. Groups showed no significant differences on days 1 and 7. By day 14, however, the face yoga group demonstrated significantly lower edema, ecchymosis, and discoloration scores (p < 0.001 for all). Structured face yoga may accelerate recovery after septorhinoplasty, with benefits most evident after two weeks. As a safe, non-invasive, and cost-free practice, it could serve as an effective adjunct to standard postoperative care. Larger trials are warranted.