Is it normal for only one nostril to be draining blood after a septoplasty?

Question

I had my septorhinoplasty on August 19th. My left nostril has shrunk/ stopped draining blood, my right side has shrunk a little, there’s a yellowish elastic (nurse said it’s the suture) sort of hanging off the side of my nose but it keeps draining blood and forms clots whenever I clean it. She said to keep cleaning it and changing the Gauze until it falls out on its own. It’s never drained blood like this before. Is it okay for the nose to do this? called the clinic and thats what they told me.

Robert Deeb, MD · Answer

Hello and thanks for the questions. Yes drainage after of blood or mucous is quite common after septorhinoplasty. It can last for several days and even up to a week. If you develop high volumes of bright red blood I recommend contacting your surgeon.

Melih Erogul, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum.
Hi and welcome to our forum!
Congratulations on your recent surgery. The performance of rhinoplasty involves the separation of the
nasal bones and cartilages from overlying and underlying structures,
fracturing the nasal bones, removing excess bone / cartilage, reshaping of
the remaining bone and cartilage. The significant intraoperative
trauma may result in a bit of postoperative bleeding. In our practice we utilize a "drip pad" under the nose secured with tape to catch any accumulating blood. It is usually required for less than a week. If you are fully saturating a 2" x 2" gauze within an hour or so, you should contact your physician. The septal segment of the procedure is usually performed through one nostril which may explain the difference in drainage amounts.
Continue followup with your surgeon.
Best wishes...

Is it normal for only one nostril to be draining blood after a septoplasty?

Answers (2)