Rhinoplasty incision hurts the most? 3 days post op. Is this normal?

Question

I'm 3 days post-op and while most of my nose just feels pressure, the incision is stingy and painful to the point that I am taking my painkillers still and as such have not yet had a bowel movement. The stitches are meant to dissolve on their own and I've been instructed to keep them moist using a Q-tip with neosporin or vaseline, which is torture. I can barely move my face/make expressions because the stitches feel so tight it feels like they're being stretched and it hurts! Is this normal?

Jeffrey R. Raval, MD, FACS, MBA · Answer

Hello, I am sorry to hear you are in so much pain. This does not sound quite normal for being 3 days post-op. I would definitely schedule a time to see your board-certified surgeon for a follow-up appointment. Good luck! There are some great, free resources available that can help you understand your post-op recovery process as well.

Samuel Shatkin, Jr., MD · Answer

Normally the discomfort is subsiding a few days after nasal surgery.  If you are still having significant discomfort, I suggest letting your surgeon take a look to see how things are healing.

Houtan Chaboki, MD · Answer

Rhinoplasty incisions may or may not be more uncomfortable than other parts of the nose (bone, cartilage, etc) in the recovery period. If you've had open rhinoplasty with stitches, then it may hurt more as compared to closed rhinoplasty without an external scar. Regardless, patients should speak with their plastic surgeon, especially when it has only been three days after surgery. He/she can help determine if you are healing appropriately.potomacplasticsurgery.com/blog/open-vs-closed-rhinoplasty-which-is-better/Best,Dr. Chaboki

Robert S. Schmidt, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. This doesn't sound quite normal. If I was you, I'd ask to be checked by your surgeon. Normally things are settling down by this point. Good luck!

Rhinoplasty incision hurts the most? 3 days post op. Is this normal?

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Answer: Rhinoplasty recovery

Answer: Rhinoplasty recovery

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Rhinoplasty incision hurts the most? 3 days post op. Is this normal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Rhinoplasty recovery

Answer: Rhinoplasty recovery

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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