How long should I ice my nose after rhinoplasty surgery?

Question

It is now 15 days past the initial surgery. I used the ice pack for the bruising on the nose and around the eyes but I haven't used the ice pack in a few days. Is it going to cause long-term damage to the intended result if I don't use the ice pack? It is now just puffy in the post-splint stage. Is it ok to just let the nose "work itself out" at this point?

Parker A. Velargo, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question!  Generally, ice won't help much after the first 3-5 days following your procedure. Arnica Montana gel can help to speed the resorption of bruising up, however. As a rule, 80% of swelling should be gone by now and 90% of your swelling should be gone by 2 months. It takes a full year or longer before all of your post op swelling will resolve, especially in the tip. So, at this point, don't worry about the ice.  Enjoy your nose!Parker Velargo, MD

Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Great question.  I generally tell my patients to ice the first 24-48 hours after surgery.  Keeping your head elevated also helps with the swelling.  I recommend the arnica for bruising post operative too.  You are only 15 days out, so I would give it some time for the healing to take place.  Best wishes

Julian De Silva, MD · Answer

I typically advise my patients to ice their
recovering nose in the first 3 days following surgery. I have found that the one
useful approach is to fill a Ziplock baggy with ice and to place the bag
directly onto the region for about 10 minutes each hour that you are awake.
After the first 3 days, the efficiency of icing your recovery nose decreases
and it will no longer provide much benefit.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I usually have patients ice the nose for 24-48 hours. I do not think 2 weeks after surgery it will help in any way. Always best to ask your surgeon.

How long should I ice my nose after rhinoplasty surgery?

Answers (4)

More Rhinoplasty Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

How long should I ice my nose after rhinoplasty surgery?

Answers (4)

More Rhinoplasty Questions

My Arrow Nose into a cute button nose? (Photo)

My nose looks squashed to one side. Will it continue to grow this way? What is the course of action here? (Photo)

How many times a day and for how long should I put a cold compress over my eyes after rhinoplasty?

Scar deformity after open rhinoplasty. What is the solution? (Photo)

Does the inside color of my nose look normal? (Photo)

Can you tell me more about brow bone shaving and rhinoplasty combined in one surgery?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS