Big mistake - cocaine after rhinoplasty

Question

I did a small amount of cocaine 2 months post op. Prior to this, my nose was healing so nicely. I had an open rhino septoplasty done. The bridge was narrow and the tip was just a little swollen. Now, a week after doing that, my nose bridge/tip are more swollen. I am so upset, especially because I am not one to do drugs. I just made a poor decision while drunk. I am extremely worried about the outcome and just want some opinion as to whether I could have truly negatively impacted the end result.

Mark Been, MD · Answer

Thanks for your post. The first step to take is to return to your rhinoplasty surgeon for an intranasal examination. Watchful waiting will be necessary to see if any vascular compromise has occurred.

Joshua A. Halpern, MD, PA · Answer

Thank you for your question. Cocaine causes vasoconstriction to blood vessels. If you picture your blood vessels as a water hose, and your nose as the lawn, as long as you water the lawn, the lawn will grow. Cocaine is like stepping on the the water hose, no water on the lawn, the lawn dies. Since it's been two months that helps you, but I  strongly recommend you see your Plastic Surgeon ASAP.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Thank you for your question and cocaine and a rhinoplasty are a bad mix so see your surgeon to ascertain you do not have an internal injuryDr Corbin

H. George Brennan, MD, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

Quit punishing yourself, learn from your mistake and refrain from any further drug use. Given time, providing you're not a habitual user, nature will take its course and your nose should heal just fine.best of luck to you,

Big mistake - cocaine after rhinoplasty

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