Nose Improvements
Can we tape it back together? : Tape slings for Rhinoplasty patients
After most cosmetic surgery, most doctors will recommend their patient wear a compression garment to assist in the reduction of swelling. Unfortunately, there is no such garment for your nose. Instead many doctors will suggest that a patient continue to tape their nose after the cast is removed. This not only speeds healing and reduces swelling, but can also help to reduce the risk of an abnormal nose shape which can be caused by failing to provide the nose with enough support as it heals.
It is generally recommended that after your rhinoplasty cosmetic surgery you tape your nose as much as you can tolerate it, but especially at night when damage to the new nose is most likely. You should continue this routine for 5 or 6 weeks, or until your swelling has significantly receded. It is important that you apply tape both across, and under your nose for full support, and that your nose remain anchored to the face.
This is done by first placing tape across your nose and onto your cheekbones, just as you would apply a breathright strip. Wrap a second piece of tape across the bottom of your nose. This can either be anchored to the first piece of tape, or to the sides of the nose, high up, near the corner of the eye. The third and final piece of tape over the lower half of the first, and out on to the cheeks.
This will add extra centering support, and should also add a securing hold on the second piece of tape. This tape sling will attach more securely if placed on a clean, dry surface, so it is advisable to wash your nose before attaching the tape.