Are the Splints Placed in the Inside of the Nose or the Outside?

This depends on what you have performed during surgery. In general, internal nasal splints are placed following a septoplasty. If external work is performed, a hard nasal cast will be placed on the outside of the nose for the following reasons:1) To keep the nose in its new shape2) To protect the nose during the initial healing periodI hope this information helps, and good luck!

External splints are routinely used after rhinoplasty surgery to reduce swelling, stabilize the nasal bridge and protect the nose for the first week after nasal surgery.  If work is not done on the nasal bones a splint may not be required.  There are a number of external splints available depending on surgeons preference.  splints can be made from plaster,  metal or  plastic.  Internal splints can be useful to hold the septum in position during the healing period.  Internal splints are not routinely required but are useful in certain cases.

Frequently an external splint, or at least delicate tapes, are used to minimize swelling and hold the nasal bones in proper position. Internal splints can be used to keep the airway splinted open following a procedure to improve your breathing. Both types of splints are typically removed 5-7 days following surgery. I hope this answer is helpful for you.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS

Lone Tree Facial Plastic Surgeon