How Long Should I Wait for Kenalog Injections to Take Effect in the Nose? Doctor Answers, Tips
Rhinoplasty: Q&A
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How Long Should I Wait for Kenalog Injections to Take Effect in the Nose?

Hello, I had a an open Rhinoplasty 5 months ago, and today my surgeon injected a small dose of Kenalog in my nasal tip. I have thick scar tissue that is very firm. Should I expect to see a reduction in swelling soon, or does it take a while to take effect? I forgot to ask my surgeon when I was there. Thank you for all of your advice, it has been very helpful throughout my recovery!

11 Doctor Answers | Asked by 3802anon in Texas
+3

Steroid injection in nose scar tissue can take 6-8 weeks to note changes.

Since steroid injections work by breaking the bonds between collagen (scar) bundles, the effect of localized steroid injection is to reduce scar tissue bulk beneath the surface of the skin. These injections need to be skillfully placed deeply enough to avoid excessive shrinkage of the normal dermis, causing depression and thinning of the skin. That is why most of us who perform steroid injections to improve results do so conservatively, starting with low doses. I usually wait 6-8 weeks so... more
+2

In my experience, Kenalog injections in your nose following Rhinoplasty Surgery will show results within a month.

I read your concern. In my practice, Kenalog-10 is occasionally used in the "supra-tip" area for stubborn swelling. In my experience, Kenalog may start working as soon as 1-2 days following your injection, and the drug is almost completely out of your system by one month after your injection. In that regard, a repeat injection may be performed 2-4 weeks after the first. Regards from NJ:
+2

Kenalog After Rhinoplasty

Hi 3802anon in Texas - Many patients see a response in the first two weeks. Often more than one injection is indicated. The spacing of the injections is usually 6-8 weeks. Also, there are different strengths of Kenalog. One usually starts with a weaker strength. Sincerely, Tom Kaniff

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+2

How Long for Kenalog Injections to take Effect after Rhinoplasty

Your surgeon will probably wait 3-4 weeks to evaluate the effects of the Kenalog injections and decide if serial injections are necessary.  Some surgeons feel this is appropriate in thick skinned noses, even though the Kenalog will be active for another 3-4 weeks.
+1

Kenalog injections require 4-6 weeks to reach full effect

Kenalog injections work by inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death). This effect, plus the dissolution/dissapearance of the dead cells, takes several weeks to occur. Treating again too soon generally results in overcorrection/overdoing it. Your surgeon is wise to go slow.
+1

Kenalog Injections for Nasal Swelling

I typically use Kenalog for the small group of patients with persistent swelling above the nasal tip after undergoing Rhinoplasty. The earliest I will inject is usually 6-8 weeks after surgery. Injections can be repeated as needed in 3-6 week intervals depending upon the degree of persistent swelling and the clinical response to the treatment. The Kenalog begins to work immediately but it may take weeks to months to see a definite result. Results may also depend upon the dosage of Kenalog... more
+1

Kenalog injection after rhinoplasty

Dear 3802anon, I usually wait about a month in between injections.  It takes about this long to see the result from injections.  The injections are really nice at bringing down swelling. Best, Nima Shemirani
+1

How long for Kenalog to work post-rhinoplasty

Most surgeons wait 3-4 weeks after Kenalog steroid injections to see the effect. Multiple injections spaced monthly are usually required. Regular follow-up with your surgeon will be required for the best result.
+1

Kenalog for nasal tip

I am not a big fan of injecting kenalog into the nasal tip. There are risks of kenalog injection for swelling that I think are outweight its use in most cases.
+1

Kenalog after rhinoplasty

The effects of Kenalog can be unpredictable and we use it rarely after rhinoplasty. With patience and time all stiffness will resolve in due course. Kenalog response is typically in six weeks, and has done what it will by eight weeks. Some will retreat in eight weeks if all is going well and a small repeat is needed. Less is best. Best of luck, peterejohnsonmd
+1

Kenalog

Kenalog usually takes about 4-6 wks to take effect. However, even after the 6 wks you will get some more reduction as the swelling continues to decrease from the rhinoplasty. Bet of luck,   Michel Siegel, MD
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