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Is It Normal for the Nose to Look Better (Smaller and More Refined) After the Cast is Removed Than 2 Weeks Later?

asked 10 months ago by rebeccamm
Latest answer by Francis R. Palmer, III, MD
Question viewed 303 times
Tags: 3 weeks post-op, cast, swelling

Had a closed rhinoplasty almost 3 weeks ago and upon the removal of the cast my nose looked perfect. The next day my nose was significantly more swollen and continued to swell over the next few days (Mostly around the bridge and tip) Now my nose is larger and less refined and doesn't look as good as it did the day of cast removal. Will it return to the way it looked that day?

8 answers to Is It Normal for the Nose to Look Better (Smaller and More Refined) After the Cast is Removed Than 2 Weeks Later?

+1

Nose looks larger 2 weeks after cast removed following Rhinoplasty

I have performed Rhinoplasty for over 20 years and one of the main reasons, I use a cast after a Rhinoplasty is to control the swelling. Once the cast is removed, the nasal tissues are free to swell without restriction and certainly do so. I instruct all, of my Rhinoplasty, patients that once the cast comes off...the nose will swell and can do so unevenly where one side swells one day and the other side swells the next. This is all normal healing after a Rhinoplasty... more
Francis R. Palmer, III, MD

Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Swelling after splint removal

The external splint resists edema or swelling in that area. It is not uncommon after removal to see swelling. This will resolve but takes time. It can take a full year but it usually looks very good at 6 weeks.
Richard Dale Reynolds, MD

El Paso Plastic Surgeon
+1

Rhinoplasty and splints

The swelling is variable after rhinoplasty surgery and certainly after the removal of the splint, the nose can look more swollen. You really have to give it a good 6 months to a year to see the improvment.
Steven Wallach, MD

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
+1

Swelling after cast

The nasal splint or cast controls swelling. When it is removed any residual swelling will now freely happen. This is one of the reasons rhinoplasty healing takes so long. Your nose should return to the appearance you had right after removal and become even beter with time.
David A. Bray, Sr., MD

Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Rhinoplasty recovery: swelling and splints

As your activities increase after surgery, swelling can increase as well. With time, the swelling should resolve. During the first week, the splint reduced swelling and you hopefully limited your activities. Now that the splint is off and you are on the go, a mild amount of swelling could develop. It is important to address this issue with your surgeon so you can be sure it is not something else more serious.
Michael Suzman, MD

New York Plastic Surgeon

www.westmedgroup.com

+1

Nasal splint compresses swelling

If you were happy with your nose right after the splint came off, you will most likely be pleased with your results in the long run as well. The splint will compress any swelling, but when it comes off the nose will look wider and less defined. Do not worry, this swelling is only temporary and most of the swelling is gone in a month. All the best.
Jason Lichtenberger, MD

Bellingham Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Swelling after splint removal

It is not uncommon for the nose to increase in swelling after the splint is removed. You are in the confusing time post operativly when doubts arise. Try to be patient and give your nose a chance to finish healing. Keeping your head elevated on several pillows at night is still a good idea. Your doctor may also recommend massaging your nose. Good luck.
William H. Gorman, MD

Austin Plastic Surgeon

www.whgormanmd.com

+1

Yes

You answered your own question -- the splint minimizes the swelling - when it comes off the nose can swell up again. It will go down. Be patient and talk to your doctor.
William B. Rosenblatt, MD

New York Plastic Surgeon

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