Is it totally necessary to wear nose cast 24/7 for 2 weeks after rhinoplasty?

Question

My board certified cosmetic surgeon is ADAMANT about his patients wearing the external nose cast for 14 days post op, regardless how involved a patient's rhinoplasty was. I've read extensively online that many board-certified doctors only require their patients to wear the cast during the day for 5-7 days. Is my surgeon just being extra cautious? His assistant told me that even a week after surgery, the nasal bones were still "floating around" inside my nose.

Avron Lipschitz, MD · Answer

Our protocol here at Athena Plastic Surgery in Stuart and Palm Beach Gardens is hard splint off after 5 - 7 days
steristrips to control swelling for 2 weeks thereafter.
Sutures out at 1 week (same time as hard splint removed)

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

Usually a week is all that is necessary.  This has proven to be a safe time to wait and acceptable to patients who need to get back to their normal routines.  It may be that in your particular case due to a more involved procedure, additional time with a cast is requested by your surgeon.

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

Every qualified BC PS who performs Rhinoplasty has their own protocols for post-op care. Since you decided on that Surgeon I urge you to follow his/her instructions.

Miguel Mascaro, MD · Answer

You are correct, everyone has a different post op regimen.  That being said, its always best to follow your doc's recommendations as they know what gives the best results in their hands and for their technique.  Not only that, but keeping the cast on longer will help reduce the swelling, so thats an added bonus.  Best of luck with your healing, and congratulations on your procedure!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

This will vary from surgeon to surgeon.  The length of time depends on how extensive your rhinoplasty was and how well your nose is healing. Sometimes patients can have their casts removed earlier if they are progressing very well, while other patients may need to keep theirs on for a longer period of time.Best to trust your board certified plastic surgeon's judgment.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Is it totally necessary to wear nose cast 24/7 for 2 weeks after rhinoplasty?

Answers (9)