When is It Safe to Go to a Crowded Club After Rhinoplasty?

Question

How long after rhinoplasty should you protect your nose from trauma? I feel like going out to a club, there is potential for danger, such as some drunk person accidentally bumping into my face. How long does it take for the nose to become as stable as it was before? Am I right to be concerned?

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Carolina,

	Your nose should be stable one month after rhinoplasty.  Even if you never had rhinoplasty, a night of clubbing with Chris Brown could result in a nasal fracture, just ask Rhianna!  Good luck and be well.

	Dr. P

James M. Pearson, MD, FACS · Answer

That's a good question, Carolina. It is reasonable to be concerned about protecting the nose after rhinoplasty. During the early postoperative period, even minor trauma to the nose could potentially cause lasting deformity. During the initial 6-8 weeks after rhinoplasty, I typically advise patients to consider avoiding situations where there is greater potential for minor nasal trauma. After 6-8 weeks, the nose should be adequately stable to resist minor trauma. Good luck.

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

I would wait 6 weeks before you put yourself in a position that you might get hit in the nose. Unless you are talking about golf clubs, in which case you could go back in about 3-4 weeks! Have fun and be careful.

Robert Kotler, MD, FACS · Answer

After rhinoplasty, the nose can be fragile for six weeks or longer. 

	I understand your concern about a "drunk person accidentally bumping into my face."  That has happened.  After rhinoplasty, the nasal bones and other tissues have not completely welded together until at least 5-6 weeks after surgery.  During that time, your nose will be more vulnerable to being re-broken by an accident.

	There are two choices.  Either refrain from going to a crowded club that caters to drunks.  Or, bring a bodyguard with you. 

	Just kidding, but the reality is you are probably taking too great a chance. Because would it not be just your luck if were bumped and the nose cracked and shifted position?

	Then you would have to have another procedure!  It is not worth taking the chance.  Take a little break from the club scene.  You will be back later!

	Robert Kotler, MD, FACS
	Facial Plastic Surgeon
	Author, SECRETS OF A BEVERLY HILLS COSMETIC SURGEON

Catherine Huang-Begovic, MD, FACS · Answer

Given that most of my patients are relatively young - I've actually gotten this question before from several of my patients!  It takes about 6 weeks for your nose to completely heal, and I would definitely avoid alcohol for about 2 weeks after surgery.  In the end, common sense is the best answer! 

	Dr. Cat Begovic M.D.

Michael L. Schwartz, MD · Answer

You should wait at least six weeks before being in a crowded situation with moving arms and legs like that. Even then be careful!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	I would suggest you stay away from the mixture of moving body parts, alcohol in a tight space for at least 2 months after surgery.

	Best wishes.

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

Given the time, money and emotional investment, you should probably wait at least 6 - 8 weeks before going to one of these clubs. Realize that if you get hit hard on your nose even at this time, there may very well be some disruption. You may also find that the smoke can be quite irritating.

Gregory Pippin, MD · Answer

You should be fine to go to the club approximately 6 weeks after surgery.  I would caution you to use good judgement.  A blow to the nose could ruin your results.  Warmest regards.

	Dr. Pippin

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

I have performed Rhinoplasty for over 20 years and have always advised my Rhinoplasty patients to avoid direct nasal contact (trauma) for at least 1-2 months. At that time, IMO, the nasal bones are set and any trauma that fractures the nose would have done so regardless of the prior Rhinoplasty. Obviously, it's never in your best interest to suffer nasal trauma, so protect your nose even at the club.

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