Can sleeping on your stomach (with nose on pillow) do damage to results of Septorhinoplasty?

Question

I am considering having a septoplasty/turbinate reduction combined with rhinoplasty. (I understand that part of the procedure will involve spreader grafts). I sleep on my stomach and my face (and nose) often get buried in the pillow. Can pressure on face/nose effect the results of the surgery? Surgeon tells me it would be too uncomfortable for me to do this after surgery anyway, but I'm wondering about longer term after healing -- i.e. damage to spreader grafts or re-deviation of septum)?

Richard A. Bartlett, MD · Answer

Dear gr145,Sleeping on your stomach will most likely cause you significant discomfort after surgery. I would avoid sleeping on your face since this will put pressure on your nose.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. I recommend not sleeping on your stomach for 4 weeks after surgery.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Initially, it would not be a good idea to sleep on your face and push on you nose.  Besides, it would probably be painful to do so.

Jeffrey Jumaily, MD · Answer

At the beginning it will be uncomfortable to sleep face down so you won't do it. As it heals (2-4 weeks), it will be less tender and you can sleep however you like. Usually this is not a problem. Your nose should be strong enough to withstand sleeping. Good luck

Can sleeping on your stomach (with nose on pillow) do damage to results of Septorhinoplasty?

Answers (4)