How soon after rhinoplasty can I rinse the inside of my nose with water?

Question

After how many months after a rhinoplasty can I rinse the inside of my nose with water?

Marvin F. Shienbaum, MD · Answer

It's important to consult with your surgeon about your specific post-operative care instructions. They will advise you on when it's safe to begin rinsing the inside of your nose with water.

Generally, you can start gently rinsing your nose with a saline solution a few days after surgery, once any nasal packing has been removed. It's crucial to avoid forceful rinsing or blowing your nose, as this can disrupt the healing process.

Here are some general guidelines to follow:

Wait for your surgeon's approval: Your surgeon will provide specific instructions based on your individual healing process.
Use a saline solution: A saline solution helps to keep your nasal passages moist and clean without irritating the delicate tissues.   
Gently rinse: Avoid forceful rinsing or blowing your nose, as this can dislodge any healing tissues.   
Follow your surgeon's instructions: Adhere to your surgeon's specific post-operative care instructions to ensure optimal healing and minimize complications.   
Remember, everyone heals differently, so it's important to follow your surgeon's advice to ensure a successful recovery.

Oakley Smith, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Hi, It is better for you to consult with your facial plastic surgeon who can examine you and give you opinion based on examination. After one wk, but avoid manipulating the nose while rinsing the nose.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

You should nerve put tap water in your nose.  There are sterile saline rinses you can buy in the pharmacy to rinse your nasal cavities and can start this usually 3 days after surgery.  Consult with your surgeon.

Lexie Wang, MD · Answer

That depends- why are you rinsing your nose with water? That being said, most rhinoplasty surgeons are okay with you rinsing your nose (and actually want you to) immediately after surgery so I assume thsi would be fine, although usually we have you using saline as that's gentler in the nose.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Nasal saline may be better than water since it is more soothing on the inside of the nose, and since it is helpful for promoting healing and normal breathing after rhinoplasty surgery. I hope this is helpful! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

How soon after rhinoplasty can I rinse the inside of my nose with water?

Answers (10)

Answer: Rinse?

Answer: Rinse?

Answer: We allow our patients to use nasal saline 2 weeks after rhinoplasty surgery.

Answer: We allow our patients to use nasal saline 2 weeks after rhinoplasty surgery.

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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How soon after rhinoplasty can I rinse the inside of my nose with water?

Answers (10)

Answer: Rinse?

Answer: Rinse?

Answer: We allow our patients to use nasal saline 2 weeks after rhinoplasty surgery.

Answer: We allow our patients to use nasal saline 2 weeks after rhinoplasty surgery.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.