1 month post-op. Is taping beneficial now since my nose is still sensitive and throbbing? Is it common to tape for 6 months?

Question

I was advised to wait to tape my nose following cast removal. At 1- month post-op, doctor said to start taping & to do it for 6 months. I'm nervous that my taping may hurt nose since it is still very sensitive with throbbing & pressure. My nasal bones were broken and I had alloderm. Is taping beneficial at this 1-month point? Is it common or not unusual to tape the nose for 6 months of time? Is it possible for a patient to cause asymmetry by taping improperly or taping in of itself?

Adam Bryce Weinfeld, MD · Answer

Taping after external splint removal can be very beneficial to control swelling post operatively.  I typically encourage patients to tape as long as they feel it is still helping which is commonly for a period of a few months.  For example, if you have been consistently taping and then omit it one evening and wake visibly more swollen the next day, I would encourage you to continue.  On the other hand, if you notice no change after a night without taping, you may no longer need to tape.

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Hi @Velez! Taping is common and helps with swelling. I recommend that all my patients tape nightly for at least 3 months post op.  Best of luck to you!

Charles W. Guy II, DO, FAOCO · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Taping can help to minimize the swelling that occurs post rhinoplasty.  How long you tape is surgeon dependent.   Taping for 6 mos is not common but if Alloderm was used I have seen swelling last longer than normal.  This may be why the 6 mos recommendation was given.   If you have irritation to the skin from the tape, you may want to discuss the risks and benefits with your surgeon.   In general, taping should not cause asymmetry in the long run as long as you are not putting excess pressure on the nose.  I hope this helps

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Velez, I would follow your surgeons post operative instructions. Taping after rhinoplasty is a personal choice that varies from surgeon to surgeon. Personally, I do not have my patients tape the nose. I think that taking the tape on and off is bothersome to the tissues and is not necessary as the swelling will dissipate on its own. Again every surgeon has their own opinions and its best to go with your surgeons post operative instructions as he she knows best what techniques were used during your procedure and where you are in the recovery phase. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

1 month post-op. Is taping beneficial now since my nose is still sensitive and throbbing? Is it common to tape for 6 months?

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Answer: Taping the Nose After Rhinoplasty

Answer: Taping the Nose After Rhinoplasty

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1 month post-op. Is taping beneficial now since my nose is still sensitive and throbbing? Is it common to tape for 6 months?

Answers (4)

Answer: Taping the Nose After Rhinoplasty

Answer: Taping the Nose After Rhinoplasty

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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