Does Swelling Usually Increase After the Nose Splint is Removed?

Rhinoplasty surgeons place tape and an external splint to preserve the operative result, decrease swelling, and stabilize the nasal framework during the early healing phase.
Once the splint/tape are removed, it is very common for the nasal tip to swell because the compressive forces have been removed. This transient increase in swelling usually improves in the week following the spint removal, but the nose usuallyr remains "puffy" for several months.
Revision rhinoplasty patients typically have more swelling that is also prolonged when compared to primary rhinoplasty patients.
There are several things that can be done to improve the swelling in the early post-operative period. Elevation of the head (higher than the heart) when sleeping can decrease the amount of swelling.
If the nose is significantly swollen after the cast removal, it can be re-taped for an additional week or nightly taping with a compressive tape can help.

Hi Jacinta,
When the tape and splint are first removed after having been on the nose for 5 to7 days after rhinoplasty, the taped area is pressed down. The majority of the swelling at this point is above and below the splint, in the tip and on the upper bridge of the nose.
A few hours after splint removal, the swelling evens out. It may be more swollen for a few days and then eventually return to where it was when you were happy right after splint removal.
Good luck and enjoy your new nose.
DR. P