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?

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.

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

How long should I ice my nose after rhinoplasty surgery?

Answers (4)