Is It a Must to Put on a Cast After Rhinoplasty?

Question

Is it a must to put on a cast after rhinoplasty?

Paul S. Nassif, MD · Answer

When osteotomies (fracturing of the nasal bones) are performed, or when the structure of the nose is altered, it is necessary to place a hard cast on the nose for the first week following surgery. This ensures your nose heals properly in its new shape. After the cast is removed, you will have brown paper tape on the nose for another week. Not so bad considering you'll get a lifetime of joy from your new nose. Good luck.

Oakley Smith, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It is traditional to place an external cast after rhinoplasty. However it's not necessary. The argument for a cast is based on stabilizing the fractured nasal bones during the initial critical days after surgery. The other argument is it reduces swelling. Neither of these have been clearly proven to be true. However since the complications of having a cast placed is very remote, most surgeons continue the practice. It's the attitude "Since there's no harm, and it might help...." Its the internal stents which are the more critical part many surgeons feel.

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,

	Whenever osteotomies come to be a part of a given rhinoplasty then splints are required to keep the nasal bones in place to heal properly.

	Therefore, when the surgeon does not address the nasal bones a "cast" is not necessary hence the swelling will be minimized.

	I hope this helps.

	Thank you for your inquiry.

	The best of luck to you.

	Dr. Sajjadian

Theda C. Kontis, MD · Answer

Casts, or dorsal splints, are applied to the exterior of the nose often after rhinoplasty. Usually all rhinoplasties have tape placed on the nose to decrease swelling and keep tissues in the proper position while healing. However, a cast is applied when the bones are broken, in order to keep them in correct position while the nose swells during the healing process. There is no reason to be concerned about having a cast placed, and the best option is to leave it to the discretion of your surgeon.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

If I perform a rhinoplasty without cutting the nasal bones (osteotomies) I will only place tape to minimize swelling. If osteotomies are performed then a splint is typically used to keep the bones in place for one week while they heal.Stephen Weber MD, FACS

Is It a Must to Put on a Cast After Rhinoplasty?

Answers (10)

Answer: Casts are not a "must" for Rhinoplasty!

Answer: Casts are not a "must" for Rhinoplasty!

Answer: Is It a Must to Put on a Cast After Rhinoplasty?

Answer: Is It a Must to Put on a Cast After Rhinoplasty?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is It a Must to Put on a Cast After Rhinoplasty?

Answers (10)

Answer: Casts are not a "must" for Rhinoplasty!

Answer: Casts are not a "must" for Rhinoplasty!

Answer: Is It a Must to Put on a Cast After Rhinoplasty?

Answer: Is It a Must to Put on a Cast After Rhinoplasty?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.