Does the Splint Affect Rhinoplasty Results?

The splint is very important, in that it prevents the nasal skin from becoming "amorphous" during the swelling phase after the operation (after any surgery, your body responds by swelling for the first 2-3 days). The skin wants to swell outwards, but the splint prevents this, rather forcing the swelling to cause the skin to "stick" down onto the underlying cartilage that was manipulated during the rhinoplasty. The splint prevents the formation of "dead space" under the skin, where fluid can collect and result in a loss of nasal definition.
Although it is nice to have a clean, symmetric splint, it is not totally necessary to achieve the same endpoint. If the shape being held under the splint is symmetric as desired, it is only "cosmetic" that the splint looks that way as well, i.e. if one edge is longer on the left side, but it does not impact the splint's function, then it is not important.
That being said, cosmetic Rhinoplasty is a aesthetic surgery, and surgeons tend to pay attention to the aesthetics - so most of us try to have a neat, symmetric splint.

Nasal splints are used in the vast majority of rhinoplasty procedures. Splints are utilized to hold the nasal bones in proper position. They also help to decrease swelling in the post-operative period
                The management of nasal splints varies from patient to patient and depends upon the patient’s specific anatomic deformity. In some cases, nasal splints may not be necessary. In other cases where the nasal bridge is narrowed or when the nose is straightened, nasal splints may be an absolute necessity. Under these circumstances, premature removal of the splint may result in spread of the nasal bones or recurrent deviation of the nose. This can adversely impact the surgical result.

                It takes time for the nasal bones to heal following an infracture. For this reason, nasal splints are usually left in place for at least one week following rhinoplasty surgery. This allows time for resolution of swelling and bone healing.

                If you’re concerned about the management of your nasal splints, it’s important to contact your plastic surgeon. Your surgeon should be able to clarify the issue and provide you with appropriate direction. 

Thank you for your question. It is not uncommon for the nasal splint on the outside to look uneven or crooked. Sometimes this is done intentionally to compensate or the underlying correction. I do not think it will affect your final result. If there is some displacement caused by the splints usually massage can