Is it necessary to use epinephrine for septorhinoplasty? I have a severe reaction/sensitivity to it

Question

I am planning to have septo- rhinoplasty surgery. I also have a severe reaction/sensitivity to epinephrine, I've had cardiac events/passed out when it was disregarded, or when I didn't ask the doctor what the ingredients are in the numbing cream/shot. I need to know the medical term for this condition. Every time I am asked what I am allergic to, the doctors dismiss it. So, is it necessary to use epinephrine for septo- rhinoplasty surgery?

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Good Morning! That's a great question. It is ideal as it helps to constrict the blood vessels and decrease bleeding. But, your safety would obviously be number one. There are other options to assist with bleeding reduction such as TXA, though I'm unsure if this would cross-react with your sensitivity. Make sure to discuss this with all staff present for your procedure to ensure no complication. Best of luck!

George Bitar, MD · Answer

Epinephrine is used to shrink the blood vessels and decrease bleeding during rhinoplasty.  This would improve exposure and make the dissection easier during surgery.  I would discuss your concerns with your surgeon and the exact reaction you have to epinephrine.  You can also ask him/her whether they use tranexamic acid, which has been used to decrease bleeding during surgery.  You should follow your surgeon’s recommendations to avoid medications or supplements that increase the risk of bleeding.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

Rhinoplasty is commonly done with a general anesthesia.  Epinephrine is commonly used with the local anesthetic to decrease bleeding during the surgery and this is normally injected after the patient is asleep.  I would not perform a rhinoplasty without using epinephrine, because bleeding during the surgery can make the surgery much more difficult.  I would discuss your concerns with your surgeon though.

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
The nose is an extremely vascular structure. Epinephrine is a potent vasoconstrictor and markedly decreases bleeding during the procedure, allowing the procedure to be performed.
Epinephrine is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland which regulates visceral function. It is naturally present in your body. An allergy to this hormone would be devastating. You may be overly sensitive to administration of epinephrine, but not allergic to it. 
If your surgeon is made aware of your hypersensitivity, the concentration of the solution may be decreased during the procedure.
Best wishes...

Is it necessary to use epinephrine for septorhinoplasty? I have a severe reaction/sensitivity to it

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Answer: Is epinephrine necessary in rhinoplasty?

Answer: Is epinephrine necessary in rhinoplasty?

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Is it necessary to use epinephrine for septorhinoplasty? I have a severe reaction/sensitivity to it

Answers (4)

Answer: Is epinephrine necessary in rhinoplasty?

Answer: Is epinephrine necessary in rhinoplasty?

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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.