Removing Scabs in Nose from Rhinoplasty?

Question

I had Rhinoplasty done about a week ago and my nose is full of scabs. I know this is normal but the scabs are very annoying. I can hardly breathe through my nose at all. Though, I have been using nasal saline solution every few hours, as directed, and also, cleaning my nostrils with Q-tips, it doesn't seem to help with the scabs. Is there anything else I can do to help remove the scabs soon or even more quickly? Or any advice for my situation, in general? I just want to be able to breathe!

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

I would not recommend removing the scabs. That can cause problems such as infection or bleeding. Your surgeon can help and remove some of the scabs in the office.

	Staying well-hydrated, using saline nasal washes,  applying Bactroban ointment on the area and using Hydrogen peroxide soaked Q-tip on the crusts can help a great deal.

	Congestion and crusting usually resolves but manipulating the mucosa inside the nose can create problems.

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It’s not uncommon to develop crusting and scabbing following nasal surgery.  This is especially common when rhinoplasty surgery is performed in combination with septoplasty and the use of nasal splints.  This crusting can result in nasal airway obstruction and post-operative discomfort.
            For these reasons, it’s not unusual for patients to express concern about this problem.  In an effort to minimize crusting and scabbing, plastic surgeons frequently recommend nasal saline rinses or hydrogen peroxide rinses.  Vaseline can be used to soften scabs and occasionally scabs can be removed with Q-tips and instrumentation.  
  
            If this issue represents a major problem for you then consultation with your plastic surgeon will prove helpful.  Your surgeon should be able to recommend a treatment plan that addresses your concerns.

Kevin Ende, MD · Answer

Most patients get crusting in their nose following rhinoplasty. Many doctors recommend nasal saline spray. If the crusts remain unbearable, a visit to your surgeon for a repeat evaluation may be in order.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

It is absolutely normal to have some scabbing, some nasal stuffiness, some swelling and other issues 1 week after Rhinoplasty. Most Surgeons recommend use of nasal saline to help flush the nose. However, at this point in your healing process it is most important that you listen to the postoperative instructions of your Surgeon; please do not pick/ manipulate or otherwise interfere with your result.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

You should really contact your physician for post-op care but I find that dilute hydrogen peroxide, if permitted by your surgeon, is useful.

Removing Scabs in Nose from Rhinoplasty?

Answers (9)