Paranoid About Touching Nose After Septo-rhinoplasty

Question

I had surgery last week. I've followed my Surgeon's post-op instructions as best I can, but it's difficult to avoid touching my nose at all times. I've bumped it a little with my hand a couple of times during my sleep. Also, it's been impossible to avoid some facial movements that were probably stressful. Also, for about four hours I think I slept in a bad position with my head too low. I haven't noticed any significant bleeding from anything, but I worry that these things can compromise results. Am I being paranoid?

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Strategery,

	As to your feelings of paranoia, what are the voices in your head telling you?  Kidding aside, if you are worried about hitting your nose while sleeping you may ask your surgeon for a protective cast/splint that can be taped on your nose at bedtime.  Facial movements and sleeping with your head too low will not compromise your results.  Just don't turn around too fast to catch those secret agents who are  following you wanting to implant a chip under you nasal dorsum.  I hope that you love your new nose.

	Dr. P

John M. Hilinski, MD · Answer

Hopefully you haven't done any significant trauma to your nose as a result of the touching and bumping. The reality is that even minor trauma to your nose following rhinoplasty can and will result in a less than optimal result if you are not careful. You don't have to see any bleeding for there to be sufficient trauma leading to a problem. My recommendation is that you do everything in your power to minimize trauma to the nose. Some of my own patients will wear a travel pillow at night, which helps limit unwanted pressure on the nose from inadvertent movement during sleep. Others have used a small cast to further protect their nose during the early recovery period. Good luck.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

I'm sure your paranoia will be beneficial. Limited  nasal trauma (it isimpossible to totally avoid) is important during the first 6 weeks after surgery.  A custom protective facial mask may give you piece of mind.

Paranoid About Touching Nose After Septo-rhinoplasty

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Paranoid About Touching Nose After Septo-rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.