Scabbing and mucus after rhinoplasty/septoplasmy? Is there anything I can do?

Question

Hi, I had a rhino/septo about 6 weeks ago and I have bad scabbing and mucus in my throat. And my breathing is very congested at times I can only breathe out of one nostril, then sometimes it changes to the other. I’ve tried saline spray, Vaseline, ointment, and a humidifier. But scabs keep coming back even after I’ve cleaned it. Is there anything else I can do. I just want to be able to breathe better.

Adam D. Stein, MD · Answer

It is very common to have lots of mucus and crusting inside the nose after rhinoplasty.  It can take 6 months or even longer for it to resolve.  Nasal obstruction is also a problem for months after most rhinoplasties.  I recommend nasal saline and use of a Neti Pot. Also getting in the shower and breathing in the steam for 20-30 minutes can help. If the symptoms are particularly bothersome, I will often recommend use of a nasal steroid spray such as Nasocort. I would suggest you check with your surgeon and have them examine you to make sure all is well. Good luck.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

The first thing is to stop the vaseline as it can be inhaled and cause pneumonia. Instead use a gel called 'Ayr Gel'. It is aloe vera and saline. Apply 5 times a day and use Saline spray at least 5 times a day. Also see an Otolaryngologist to see if you need a nasal steroid spray and a decongestant as well or if there is a structural issue. RegardsDr. J

Paul E. Goco, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Your concerns are very common after a septorhinoplasty. Please start a sinus rinse kit ie, Neti Pot a few times a day. Please see your surgeon as sometimes a thorough cleaning will be needed to rid you of the secretions and scabbing.  Good luck.

Mehdi Sina, MD · Answer

Hi,It is important to maintain close follow up with your surgeon after rhinoplasty. While you may still have a considerable amount of swelling, an examination of the nose and possible cleaning can be helpful.Best,

J. Phillip Garcia, MD, FACS · Answer

At this point in your recovery mucus and crusting can be seen. Usually, this is due to swelling on the inside of the nose and along the incisions. Continue to use nasal saline spray as often as possible and to use Vaseline on the inside of your nostrils. I also encourage you to see your surgeon so that he may look inside the nose and determine if there are any other causes to your problem. Best of luck.

Paul N. Afrooz, MD · Answer

You are still very swollen at 6 weeks after a rhinoplasty, so the issues with your breathing may take some more time to improve as the swelling resolves.  I suggest that you see your surgeon in followup so that he or she can understand the cause of scabbing.

Scabbing and mucus after rhinoplasty/septoplasmy? Is there anything I can do?

Answers (6)