Can you put arnica gel on nose 4 weeks after surgery for swelling?

Question

I had a revision over weeks ago and I still have a lot of swelling. My nose looks crooked because one side is more swollen than the other, is this normal? I also now have a bump on the bridge, which I never had a bump on the bridge of my nose and the bone was not broken, is this normal?

Benjamin C. Marcus, MD · Answer

Arnica gel is quite safe but there is no clinical research to show that it will help this far out from rhinoplasty.That being said please remember that it will take up a year to see your final nasal result. Also you should be seeing your surgeon regularly for updates on your progress

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question! The recommendations for the use of these homeopathic medications are surgeon preference. I typically suggest the use of Arnica Montana to decrease swelling and bruising. It is an herbal medication that is propagated from the seeds of an herb. I, as well as my patients, have seen some benefit with the treatment in the postoperative period. Although there is little evidence to its effectiveness, I believe there is some benefit, and no harm. I recommend 4-5 tablets under the tongue 4x/day for 3-5 days prior and 5-7 days after the procedure. I would discuss when you would be able to use the topical gel directly in your nose. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!

William D. Losquadro, MD · Answer

Postoperative swelling is present after every revision rhinoplasty.  The amount and duration of the swelling varies according to the extent of the surgery (e.g., the amount of dissection, the volume of grafts, etc.), the overall change in the size of the nose, and the thickness of the skin.  Noses made larger or with thin skin will often remain swollen for less time; noses made smaller or with thick skin will remain swollen longer.  Swelling does not decrease uniformly so asymmetries may become apparent and then fade as time progresses.  Arnica gel may or may not decrease swelling faster, but it is unlikely to be harmful.

David Reinstadler, MD · Answer

You can put arnica gel on the nose any time after surgery. The question is will it really help. It will likely be of minimal benefit at this time. The edema at 4 weeks just needs time to resolve. Slight irregularities should even out as the edema improves. It is not uncommon for one side to swell more than the other or for the swelling to fluctuate at this stage - sometimes a patient can notice increased swelling on one side just from sleeping on that side overnight. Give it some time and keep in close contact with your surgeon. They are your best resource during the healing process and know your case specifically.Best of luck

Can you put arnica gel on nose 4 weeks after surgery for swelling?

Answers (4)

Answer: Arnica gel

Answer: Arnica gel

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Can you put arnica gel on nose 4 weeks after surgery for swelling?

Answers (4)

Answer: Arnica gel

Answer: Arnica gel

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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