Rhinoplasty: isn't the doctor suppose to take my cast off and take his patients seriously?

Question

Hi ,i recently had rhinoplasty,i just wanted to ask something that is bugging me. on surgery day doctor was very upfront and there was no warmth from the staff either,except for the anesthesiologist...i only got one follow up call from the nurse and for cast removal she said that i can either remove myself or come to office. doctor will not be in town that day, i did not pay them to just ignore me..isn't the doctor suppose to take my cast off and take his patients seriously or am i overthinking.

John Layke, DO, FACS · Answer

Although many surgeons have different bedside manner, one trait that most rhinoplasty surgeons possess is the attention to detail.  I have never allowed anyone but myself to remove the splint at the first postoperative visit, as it is the most rewarding part of the surgery - seeing a patient's reaction to their new and improved nose!  I proceed to take photos and provide necessary instructions.  What you have said does not seem normal.

Jeffrey Joseph, MD, FACS · Answer

Although every rhinoplasty surgeon has his own protocols, with  very few exceptions, I remove my own casts. We also take photographs and review post op instructions.  We next see them in 6 weeks.

Nirmal Nathan, MD · Answer

Rhinoplasty is a delicate procedure than not only requires technical expertise, but close follow-up. It is not recommended that you remove the external nasal splint yourself. This process should be guided and managed closely by your surgeon. Good luck.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

It is definitely unusual for a Surgeon to allow you to remove your own cast.  There may be some scheduling or staffing reason for this, but most of us enjoy the moment that a cast is removed. I would try to call the office again and try to reestablish the relationship. It certainly wouldn't hurt to convey your sentiments to the Surgeon.

Michael Kulick, MD, DDS · Answer

Hello, You have good concerns. However, there is nothing wrong with you contacting your doctor directly. It is typical for the post operative care to be discussed before one's procedure. For sure you do not want a lack of communication to be something that leads to a problem that could have been adverted by a phone call from you. If you are having a hard time getting through to the doctor, try contacting him directly! Sincerely,Dr. Michael Kulick San Francisco

Paul N. Afrooz, MD · Answer

Much of achieving a good outcome in rhinoplasty is related to post-operative care.  This includes removing the splint, answering all questions, and informing patients about what they can expect during the remainder of recovery.  It is very unusual for anyone but the surgeon to remove the splint following rhinoplasty.  I would recommend voicing these concerns to your surgeon.

Parit A. Patel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question.  Every plastic surgeon has his/her own postoperative protocol, I usually remove my own sutures and nasal splints.  I recommend discussing this directly with your plastic surgeon since direct constructive feedback is always important for a physician and practice to improve patient care in the future.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I usually take off all the casts for my patients. I like to also remove any sutures that I have placed.  I give specific instructions and either I or my staff answer all questions whether sent in by email, text, in person, etc.. It doesn't sound right from what you are saying.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

I agree with the other posters.  Your physician should remove the cast and then reiterate the healing process for your benefit.  You should not do this yourself.  You should be examined at that time. If your physician is away, there should be a covering doctor who can step into that role. Personally. I do not leave town until after the followup for major surgery is performed.

Michael L. Schwartz, MD · Answer

Every practice has its own regimen. I always remove the cast myself. If I am going to be away the patient is told that in advance at the time of surgery scheduling and a covering doctor is scheduled to remove it. You should express your concerns to your surgeon. The majority of surgeons sincerely want their patients to be happy and comfortable. You must have had some comfort in order to choose him for the procedure so keeping dialogue open is important.

Rhinoplasty: isn't the doctor suppose to take my cast off and take his patients seriously?

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