Rhinoplasty, a common surgical procedure to reshape the nose, involves a recovery period with post-operative effects like bleeding, oozing, and crust formation within and around the nasal passages. This is a normal part of the body’s healing process. This guide provides instructions for managing nasal cleanliness after rhinoplasty, promoting comfort and a smooth recovery.
Understanding Post-Rhinoplasty Discharge
Following rhinoplasty, it is common to observe some nasal discharge. This discharge may initially appear pinkish or dark red, consisting of blood-tinged mucus or light oozing from the surgical site. This drainage typically lessens within 48 to 72 hours. As healing progresses, discharge may become clearer or change consistency, and dried blood or mucus can form crusts around the nostrils.
Internal splints or packing, often placed inside the nose to support reshaped structures and manage bleeding, can contribute to congestion and increased discharge. These internal supports, along with the body’s inflammatory response, can lead to increased mucus production. Regular and gentle cleaning helps prevent excessive crusting and promotes clearer breathing during recovery.
Gentle Cleaning Methods
A primary method involves sterile saline spray or solution, which helps moisten and loosen dried blood or crusts inside the nostrils. Using saline spray several times a day, typically two to five times, can effectively clear debris and reduce infection risk. When using saline spray, position the nozzle gently inside the nostril and aim towards the outer wall, avoiding direct contact with the septum.
For external cleaning and to address crusts just inside the nostril opening, use cotton swabs or soft gauze pads moistened with saline solution. Gently dab the areas around the nostril edges and just inside the opening to lift away loosened material. Avoid inserting the cotton swab deep into the nasal cavity, as this can cause irritation or damage to the delicate healing tissues. Some surgeons may advise using a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution on a cotton swab for cleaning around the nostrils; always confirm this with your surgeon first.
Applying a warm, moist compress externally can assist in softening stubborn dried material on the skin around the nose. Use a soft cloth soaked in warm (not hot) water and gently pat the area, rather than rubbing or applying pressure directly to the nose. This external application helps to loosen crusts without disturbing the internal surgical site.
Important Considerations and Precautions
During the post-operative period, avoid certain actions to protect the healing nose and prevent complications. Forceful actions like vigorous nose blowing can disrupt delicate internal tissues, potentially leading to increased bleeding or dislodging sutures or grafts. If a sneeze occurs, try to do so with an open mouth to reduce pressure on the nasal passages. Do not pick at crusts or scabs inside or outside the nose, as this can cause bleeding, introduce infection, or impair healing.
Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after any nasal cleaning to minimize the risk of introducing bacteria to the surgical site. Protect the nose from accidental bumps or trauma, as nasal structures are particularly vulnerable during initial recovery. Only use cleaning products or ointments specifically recommended or approved by your surgeon, as unapproved substances can irritate the sensitive post-surgical area and hinder healing.
When to Contact Your Surgeon
While some bleeding and discharge are expected after rhinoplasty, certain signs warrant immediate attention from your surgeon. If you experience excessive or bright red bleeding that does not slow down with gentle pressure or persists beyond the first few days, contact your medical team.
Signs of a potential infection should prompt a call to your surgeon. These include increasing redness or swelling around the nose, worsening pain, or yellow, green, or foul-smelling discharge. A fever of 100.4° F (38°C) or higher is another concerning symptom. Contact your surgeon if you experience severe pain not relieved by prescribed medication, significant worsening difficulty breathing through your nose, or any other concerns about your recovery.