You're nearly at the one-week mark! Tomorrow is typically when your nasal splint will be removed - an exciting milestone in your recovery journey.
Your first week is nearly complete. You've been through the hardest part, and tomorrow marks an exciting milestone - splint removal. Here's what to expect.
The splint removal appointment is typically scheduled for day 7. This is a straightforward procedure performed by a nurse:
When the splint comes off, you'll notice an instant reduction in the apparent size of your nose from certain angles. You'll be able to see the narrowing of the bridge and elevation of the nasal tip that was achieved during surgery.
The splint doesn't cover your nasal tip, so the bruising and swelling there has been visible throughout. Your tip will still appear wider than your final result due to ongoing swelling. This resolves gradually over the coming weeks and months.
Initial disappointment is normal. Swelling masks the final definition for weeks or months. Taking weekly photos will help you document the gradual improvements that might be hard to notice day-to-day.
Your nasal bones have recently been fractured and repositioned. They're now healing in their new position. Be gentle with your nose:
After splint removal, you may have steristrips applied to help support the nose. These should be:
Avoid wearing glasses or sunglasses unless explicitly approved by your surgeon. The pressure can create indentations in the healing nasal bones. If you need glasses to see, speak to us about alternatives (contact lenses, tape to suspend glasses from forehead, etc.).
You may experience temporary numbness or tingling at the nasal tip and upper lip. This is normal and will gradually resolve as the nerves heal.
Looking back at day 2, you should notice significant improvement in your bruising. The dark purple/blue colours should be transitioning to greens and yellows. Swelling will still be present but should be reducing. Each day brings you closer to your final result.