Swelling 3 months post op because of flying?

Question

I had my surgery almost three months ago and everything was going okay, my nose was getting smaller and the swelling was subsiding. But I took a one hour flight four days ago and my nose swelled up so badly. It’s really swollen and stiff now especially the tip. I also have to take another flight home. Will this affect my nose? What can be done?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

This is very common due to swelling and the impact of flying/cabin pressure. It can be frustrating to go through rhinoplastic surgery and still have a “big” nose, but it is not a permanent condition. You need to have patience with your body as it begins to heal. The skin, bone and cartilage are all traumatized during surgery. Inflammation (swelling) is the normal response and will help your nose to heal and look beautiful in the end. If, one year from now, you are unhappy with your nose, then that is the time to think about a revision procedure. Right now, concentrate on other things you like to do and let your nose take its time to heal. I hope this helps.

John Paul Tutela, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for reaching out.  The next flight should not effect your results.  Swelling can go up and down throughout the year.  The final result should not be affected. Sleeping with your head elevated will help.

Deepak Raj Dugar, MD · Answer

Hello,Flying can cause swelling due to the increased pressure, but generally I allow my patients to fly 8 days after surgery. The swelling will not affect how your nose will heal, and another flight should not affect it. I recommend sleeping propped up to help decrease the excess swelling. All the best, Deepak Dugar, MDScarless Rhinoplasty ExpertBeverly Hills, CA 90210

Geoffrey W. Tobias, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Xnasnosax, thank you for your question, which is a concern for most patients after surgery. Typically, flying in a pressurized cabin 3 months following surgery does not cause swelling of the nose, especially if the flight is under 3 hours duration. Swelling however can occur in a cyclic manner anytime after the surgery is carried out. In the situation where the flight is over 6 hours duration, there could be a concern because of the lack of humidity at high altitude that can cause temporary swelling of the lining of the nose. It would be a good idea to use saline nose drops in these situations that can reduce irritation from dryness. What is most important, has the swelling gone down significantly in the days after your flight, is there any significant persistent tip redness or pain. This can be a sign of low grade inflammation within the tip and I would recommend you to consult with your surgeon to evaluate you.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is quite common to have swelling post-op and certain activities can exacerbate the swelling.  This will fluctuate for a year or longer.

Swelling 3 months post op because of flying?

Answers (5)