Do you have to keep your nostrils clean of any dry blood after rhinoplasty?

Question

I had surgery a week ago and i was wondering if i need to be keeping my nostrils clean of any dry blood and what problems it would cause if im not doing it everyday. I got my cast off today and i have dry blood on the outside of my nose should i just use a qtip with hotwater to rub it off?. Also what should i put on the q tips to do clean them with.

Deepak Raj Dugar, MD · Answer

Hello!Please consults with your doctor to see what he suggests. I typically recommend using hydrogen peroxide with a clean Q- tip on the inside of the nose. Use this sparingly as peroxide can dry your nose. You can also dilute peroxide with water if you prefer something more gentle but still effective.Best of Luck!

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

The maneuver we suggest for our rhinoplasty patients is to moisten the tip of a QTip with peroxide, then hold it with your thumb and index finger, insert into your nostril to the end of the cotton tip, and twirl it like a baton. If full strength peroxide stings, you can try half strength by diluting with tap water. Hope this helps, and happy recovery! Dr Joseph

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I think that you have to ask your surgeon what he recommends for post-op care. I will often allow patients to gently clean their nose after one week using a cotton swab after they shower...

Gregory D. Roberts, MD · Answer

Platypus23, after Rhinoplasty surgery I thoroughly clean any dry blood from the nostrils and inside the nose with hydrogen peroxide soaked q-tips.  I also clean any tape residue or blood gently with a medical tape removal product that I have in the medical center.  I feel like it is best to clean all crusts out of the nostrils as this lessens the chance of infection and does not affect healing.  You should contact your surgeon to ask how you should proceed yourself with regards to cleaning.  Best wishes, Dr. Roberts

Paul N. Afrooz, MD · Answer

It is important to consult with your surgeon and see what he or she recommends for this.  I instruct my patients to use dilute peroxide and a Q-Tip to gently remove any crust or scabbing.  If it does not come off easily, do not force it.

Daniel Greenwald, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

The best way to clean after rhinoplasty is with a Q-tip and warm water.  Peroxide is very efficient but overly dries the skin and should be used sparingly.  Be careful not to disrupt your suture lines. When in doubt visit your surgeon's office: the nurse there should be able to help.

Do you have to keep your nostrils clean of any dry blood after rhinoplasty?

Answers (6)

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