All surgeries carry risks, and rhinoplasty is no exception. Some patients may experience unexpected complications post-surgery, such as implant protrusion, implant displacement or tilting, or nasal perforation. So, what exactly is nasal perforation, and how should you care for your nose after rhinoplasty? Let's explore the expert insights.
Rhinoplasty involves augmenting the external nose by filling it with autologous or allogeneic tissue or tissue substitutes to improve nasal appearance. If nasal perforation occurs post-surgery, patients should remain calm, consult their doctor, and follow proper postoperative care. This article explains the causes of nasal perforation and essential postoperative precautions.
Nasal perforations most commonly occur near the lower edge of the columella or on the nasal tip. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and tenderness in the affected mucosa, with a fluctuant sensation. Aspiration may yield yellow serous exudate.Subsequently, perforation may occur, often accompanied by minimal discharge. At the perforation site, the silicone implant may become exposed or protrude. On the nasal tip, early signs include shiny, taut skin that gradually reddens and thins before perforation.
To prevent perforation, surgeons must consider local skin tension alongside nasal aesthetics when fabricating silicone nasal implants.If during surgery the silicone implant feels excessively hard or appears whitish at the nasal tip, it should be promptly reshaped and adjusted without hesitation, regardless of the original aesthetic intent. Additionally, patients should not make unrealistic demands regarding nasal contouring. When necessary, autologous ear cartilage may be used to elevate the nasal tip. If perforation symptoms are detected, the cause must be identified, and the silicone implant should be reshaped.To reduce skin tension or due to severe symptoms, the silicone implant must be removed. High-dose antibiotics should be administered, and rhinoplasty should be postponed for six months to a year.
Postoperative Care Instructions for Rhinoplasty
1. Apply ice packs locally during the initial postoperative period to reduce swelling. Starting on the fifth day, switch to warm compresses to promote recovery.
2. During the first week post-surgery, the implant is not yet encapsulated by fibrous tissue and remains unstable. Exercise extreme caution to avoid touching, squeezing, or bumping the area.
3. Individuals requiring Chinese herbal medicine or steroid medications for certain conditions, as well as those with diabetes, may experience prolonged wound healing.
4. Avoid wearing glasses for approximately 2-4 weeks after rhinoplasty. Continue applying cold compresses to the face. Maintain an elevated head position for about 5 days—even when lying down, prop your head or back with 2-3 pillows to accelerate swelling reduction.Editor's Note: To avoid unnecessary complications after rhinoplasty, patients must strictly follow their surgeon's post-operative care instructions.