Post-op Rhinoplasty: Nasal Tubes?

Packing is different to stenting a nose after surgery. Packing is soft foam or gauze used to control bleeding. Stents are for support. Immediately after surgery the nose is in a weakened state and needs internal support to maintain the septum in the middle and also to press the mucous lining against the septal cartilage.

The tubes your surgeon mentioned are most likely Doyle splints. These are silicone sheets with a tube placed on one side to allow air to flow. You'll know that they're there but they aren't too painful, in my experience. They're usually slid out of the nose a week after surgery - this burns for a few minutes. It certainly not as bad as having the nose packed -- something that used to be done more routinely a few decades ago.

You can check out the below video clip where I discuss this further.

Rhinoplasty (Nose job) is a common operation that is performed in multiple different ways. Depending on what is done, your post-operative management and care may vary. The tubes your surgeon is referring to are "Doyle" splints which help the healing of the septum and the inner nose. Denver splints or aquaplast splints can be applied over tape to protect the nasal bones. All of these are usually removed after a week. Nasal packing is usually removed sooner secondary to the risk of infection. Nasopore or gelfoam can be utilized, which absorb. I hope this helps. Dr. Trussler