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?

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

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

It is possible your surgeon may feel differently, but I am comfortable with using saline irrigation in the nose immediately after surgery.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. I allow my patients to use gentle nasal saline spray one week after surgery. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

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.

Zamir Paez, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. After rhinoplasty, the timing for rinsing the inside of the nose depends on the type of procedure performed and your healing progress. Generally, saline rinses are recommended a few days post-surgery to help with cleanliness and reduce swelling, but always under the specific guidance of your surgeon.Using plain water to rinse the nasal interior is not typically advised, as saline solutions are better suited for this purpose. It’s best to consult your surgeon to determine the appropriate timing and method for your individual case. Ensuring proper healing before introducing any nasal rinses is key to achieving the best recovery outcomes.

Pawel Szychta, MD, PhD, DSc · Answer

You can usually start gently rinsing the inside of your nose with saline or water 1–2 weeks after rhinoplasty, depending on your surgeon's advice. Avoid forceful rinsing, and follow your surgeon's specific instructions to ensure proper healing.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

From my perspective, you can rinse your nose anytime after surgery being careful if it’s in the early postoperative.
I would rather have my patience, gently, clean out her nose, then have it full of scabs, mucus and dried blood.
Water is harmless so patients should be comfortable at rinsing out their nose even a few days after the procedure.
Patients probably need this the most during the first week or two after surgery.
Each provider will have their own postoperative instructions so I suggest asking your provider.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

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

Answers (10)

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