Will my nose be ruined for taking my external splint off early?

Question

I recently broke my nose but luckily it was all cosmetic and didn't require internal surgery of my nose. Monday I had my procedure to straighten out my nose and now it's Wednesday and I already took my splint off. The reason being I have oily skin so the splint wasn't even on tight and it could be slid around easily, so I took it off. Unfortunately I don't live anywhere near my home doctors office because I'm away at college. My nose looks straight but should I be worried?

Michael A. Epstein, MD, FACS · Answer

That wasn't wise.  It would have been better to contact your surgeon prior to doing this.  The splint works to limit swelling and protect the nasal bones that were likely broken to straighten your nose.  Not taking the splint off carefully could move the delicate bones and have your nose heal improperly.I would contact your surgeon ASAP.  They may be able to arrange for you to see a local surgeon for a new splint.

Evan Ransom, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. Basically, the splint performs two functions. First, it protects the nose bones from mild blunt trauma. Second, it helps to reduce post-op swelling. But perhaps more than any benefit in these areas, it reminds patients to be careful after surgery. Removing the splint early may result in additional swelling or lengthen its resolution. However, if you are careful and follow post-op restrictions, it's probably ok.

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

The two biggest practical functions of the splint are to help control swelling and to protect the bones from any blows or pressure while they are stabilizing. While with great care, you may well do O.K., there is likely too much happening while you are awake AND when you are asleep to recommend leaving it off. I suggest you contact your surgeon for advice.

Sunny Park, MD, MPH · Answer

It's difficult to say whether any permanent damage is/was done by removing the splint at day 2.  The nose is still quite swollen for 1-2 weeks and you may not be able to tell whether it's really straight or not.  I agree with the others that the nasal splint is necessary for protection and decreasing swelling.  I also recommend that you contact your surgeon about this.  Good luck!

Ciro Adamo, PhD, MD · Answer

Well, it surely wasn't a great idea to remove the splint yourself without asking your doctor for advice. Just the act of removing the splint, if done carelessly and at an early stage, could compromise the shape of the nose. You should contact your surgeon and get a new splint.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

I recommend that you call your surgeon today. They might be able to refer you to someone locally who can evaluate your nose and potentially either replace the splint or place tape over your bridge in place of the splint. Best. Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello Iankb97,The purpose of the nasal splint is to minimize the swelling that occurs after surgery and to protect the nose from shifting if bone work was required.  If you broke your nose, chances are bone manipulation was part of your treatment.  In this setting, it is best to have the splint to remain in place so the bones have a chance to heal in the correct position.  If the splint came off after 5 days that would be less important but it sounds like yours came off in 2 days.  I would recommend you contact your surgeon to see if he or she has any recommendations.  If this happened to my patient I would recommend the splint be placed back on and tape bought at a local pharmacy used to keep it in place.  I hope this helps and good luck.

Will my nose be ruined for taking my external splint off early?

Answers (7)

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