Postoperative Patient Instructions

Abstract

Complete written postoperative instructions are important for patients and those caring for them, and should be given to each patient after a complicated procedure like rhinoplasty. The following is a basic instruction list used in the author’s office for rhinoplasty patients:

• 1. Some oozing from the nose is expected for a day or two, and a small gauze “mustache” dressing may be worn as a drip pad. You can change or remove it as necessary. Do NOT swallow blood because it can cause nausea.

• 2. Small amounts of dried mucus and blood may start to collect in the nose. On the 2nd day after surgery, the nostrils may be gently cleaned by carefully following these instructions:

  • a. Mix equal amounts of lukewarm water and hydrogen peroxide in a small glass.

  • b. Dip a cotton swap in this solution and very gently cleanse the edge of the nostrils and rim of your nose.

  • c. Wait a few seconds for your nose to dry. Then using a different cotton swab, apply a thin coat of Vicks Vaporub, bacitracin, or Vaseline.

• 3. The inside of your nose may be moistened as often as you like with a balanced salt spray such as Ocean Spray (available from your pharmacy without prescription). The spray helps loosen any crusts. Be very gentle. Crusts should not be forcefully cleansed or pulled on. Allow the crusts to loosen on their own.