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How Long Should Surgical Glue from Rhinoplasty Last?

My son had a tip rhinoplasty last March 13 and today the surgical glue fell off of his lip incision. It has only been 3 days! Is that normal?

Doctor Answers 3

Glue should last 5-7 days

May 26th, 2009
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The tissue glue that was used on the alarplasty should fall off in about five to seven days. This is a normal phenomenon just as if it were superglue. As long as the incisions have not pulled apart or opened up there is no need to be concerned.

William Portuese, MD


Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.7 out of 5 stars 125 reviews

Don't Take Any Lip From Rhinoplasty Patients

March 17th, 2009
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Hi dolphin,

I am not aware of a "lip incision" approach to rhinoplasty. You should contact your son's rhinoplasty surgeon to get the answer to your question.

If you are referring to the columella of the nose (the center divider under the nose between the nostrils), during an external or open approach rhinoplasty an incision is made there. That area is normally sutured and then the stitches are removed between 5 to 7 days after surgery.

I personally don't usually "take any lip" from my patients, although I do encourage open communication.

I hope that both your son and you are very pleased with his new nose. Good luck and be well.

Dr. P

Michael A. Persky, MD

Michael A. Persky, MD
Encino Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.8 out of 5 stars 34 reviews

Ask the doctor

March 17th, 2009
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You should call the doctor who did the surgery to answer the question. He knows what type of "glue" he used and when it should fall off.

Toby Mayer, MD

Toby Mayer, MD
Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 32 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.