Is it ok to have removed cast at the end of sixth day post op from rhinoplasty?

Question

I had closed rhinoplasty six days ago. My cast has been getting more and more loose. I could see there was a pretty big gap between my cast and nose when I tilted my head back and looked in the mirror this morning. I just very gently and easily removed it. My appointment is on the eighth morning. Should I try to reposition it back on until my post op appointment?

Ran Y. Rubinstein, MD · Answer

Your cast is used to keep the swelling down during the first week.I typically have my patients come in to have their casts removed on the 6 to 7th day.  You are on the 8th day.  Before my patients come in I have them shower and wet the cast so it comes off easier.  I would not re apply the cast as its not necessary.  You should follow up with your surgeon however.  I typically have patients tape the tip of their nose for 6 weeks at night to keep swelling down.Good luck, Ran Y. Rubinstein, MD
200 Stony Brook Court, Newburgh, New York 
Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
Clinical Professor New York Presbyterian Hospital
National Education Faculty (physician trainer) for: 
  Allergan (Juvederm, Voluma), Valient (Scultpra,
Restylane), Cynosure (Cellulaze, Precision Laser Lift)
& Solta (Fraxel, Thermage)Zeltiq( CoolSculpting)

Alejandro Nogueira, MD · Answer

I think it should be in place for at least 2 weeks, do put a piece of holding tape or two on top of the cast, and seek your surgeon to replace for a new better fitted one.

David Tauber, MD · Answer

A
cosmetic rhinoplasty can remove and reposition tissue in the nose for better
aesthetics. Post-operatively a dorsal splint and taping are used to set the
nasal bones and control swelling. Ideally, the surgeon removes the splint and
taping during the post-operative visit. The splint can, however, become loose
prior to this visit. A conversation with the surgeon will help guide
management. Close follow-up with the surgeon is essential.

Elias G. Gikas, MD · Answer

Sometimes the cast/splint loosens up and could come off.  It should not be a problem at 6 days.  It is best to check with your surgeon and see how he wants to address it.

A. Joshua Zimm, MD · Answer

I usually remove my patients' casts at 7 days or so.  If it came off at Day 6, it's probably not an issue, but you should notify your surgeon.  Best of luck.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Most of the time the splint is used to keep the set bones in position and help keep swelling down. By day 6 or 7 it is probably fine to remove the splint.

Gaurav Bharti, MD, FACS · Answer

If you were my patient I wouldn't want you to contact me and let me know what's going on. With that being said removal of the splint have to rhinoplasty on day six is acceptable in my practice. Thanks

Edwin Moreano, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

The nasal splint is left in place for about one week after rhinoplasty surgery.  As the nasal swelling subsides, it is normal for the cast to become loose.  It is OK if it came off at day 6 and you should not try to put it back as you may cause some trauma.  Best wishes for a successful outcome.

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

I suggest to my patients, not to remove the cast.  If the cast is very loose, it can come off.  I would contact your surgeon and let them know your situation.  They will let you know how they would like to proceed.

Is it ok to have removed cast at the end of sixth day post op from rhinoplasty?

Answers (9)