Should I get my built in metal retainer removed before rhinoplasty?

Question

I have a built in metal retainer on my bottom teeth. I have rhinoplasty in two weeks and was told that metal interacts with the cauterizing machine. Should I have my retainer removed?

Chase Lay, MD · Answer

I'd have it out IF the surgeon and anesthesiologist feel it's necessary.For the surgeon I can interact with the electrocautery and for anesthesia it can be an airway foreign body issue.Chase Lay, MD

William Portuese, MD · Answer

A retainer can be removed if it is loose, since the anesthesiologist does not want it flopping around the mouth when placing the breathing tube in for the anesthetic.  In our practice, cautery is not required for a rhinoplasty procedure, so as long as the retainer solidly in place, it is best to leave it alone.  It is always best to check with your operative surgeon.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Sarah15808, In my practice I do not use a cautery for rhinoplasty surgery so there would be no need to remove the retainer even for anesthesia purposes since it is in a fixed position. Check with your surgeon and his/her policies. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Should I get my built in metal retainer removed before rhinoplasty?

Answers (3)

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