Avoiding excessive bruising and swelling after Rhinoplasty

Bruising and swelling on the nose are a reflection of the amount of surgical trauma the nose endures during rhinoplasty. The integrity of the lymphatics will also influence the course of swelling postoperatively.

I recently had a patient from Beirut, Lebanon who had undergone a rhinoplasty four years ago and had significant swelling and bruising after the surgery. Before her redo Rhinoplasty, I suggested she avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, blood thinners, herbal supplements, and niacin. I also prescribed her a 7 day course of Bruisestick ointment stick to the nasal area. Bruisestick is a standardized Arnica formula for bruises.

After surgery, we placed a nasal splint, continued oral Arnica (BruiseKare), provided a regimented protocol for ice packs every 15 minutes, elevated the head at all times, and placed intranasal splints for 4 days.

Needless to say, her revision rhinoplasty resulted in significantly less bruising and swelling when compared to her first rhinoplasty.

There are various things that can be done to reduce bruising and swelling. Some are done by the surgeon and some can be done by the patient.

As a patient, the main things you can do to reduce bruising and swelling is to:

1. Keep your head elevated after surgery
2. Apply ice to your nose area after surgery
3. Avoid activity and get rest during your recovery.

Some of my patients have taken arnica and pineapple juice and have told me this seemed to help.

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