Follow up - Does my nose in the splint resemble what it will ultimately look like?

Question

This is to clarify my last question. My nose is still in a splint, and it currently looks very pointy. From underneath, it is a triangle-shaped nose, and it used to be more blunt and button-like. Is the splint just really tight and pinching my nose? Or does this give me an idea of what it will ultimately look like?

James C. Marotta, MD · Answer

I counsel patients many times before and after surgery that you really can't tell anything about the ultimate appearance of the nose while it is still in the cast.  Taping methods vary but most surgeons use the tape and the splint to decrease swelling in the nose or to aid in healing. I typically will pull the nasal tip up slightly against the bridge to decrease tip swelling.  This gives the appearance that the nose is more upturned in the cast than it ultimately will be.

Bram Kaufman, MD · Answer

Almost certainly not. You can not really see anything through the dressing, the splint and dressing will change the way it looks and there is a lot of swelling. In fact it will be many months before the true result is visible. I hope this helps.

Clyde Mathison, MD · Answer

I counsel my patients to expect a large amount of swelling the first few weeks after surgery, and not to be too picky about the way their nose looks for several months.  This is especially true for those patients that undergo rhinoplasty via an open approach.  Those patients are counseled to expect swelling for approximately 9-12 months after surgery.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

At this point do not pay any attention to the shape of your nose while you are in a splint.  It will look totally different 3 months from now once the swelling decreases.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

The splint is placed for support and to protect the osteotomies.  It does not always represent the final shape. Be patient.

John M. Griffin, MD (retired) · Answer

Once your splint is removed, your nose will assume a less constricted, more settled appearance  which will mature significantly over the first six weeks and subtly over the next year.  It is very common for a patient to worry now, before your nose is uncovered.  Wait until you and your surgeon experience the removal of your splint-The chances are that you will be reassured that the changes in appearance are pleasing to you.

Follow up - Does my nose in the splint resemble what it will ultimately look like?

Answers (6)

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