Rhinoplasty Infection

Every surgical procedure has some pros and cons, and rhinoplasty is no exception. Rhinoplasty enhances the aesthetic features while addressing facial defects. However, postoperative nasal issues can become a concern if the results are not as expected. And sometimes they can even cause complications like rhinoplasty infection.

Rhinoplasty infection is uncommon but real. The reasons behind this infection are multifaceted. The primary cause is bacteria that enter through the bloodstream and delay the healing process, causing extreme swelling and redness.

Read on to learn more about rhinoplasty infection, its symptoms, treatment plans and preventive measures.

How Can Rhinoplasty Become Infectious?

Your immunity plays a very important role in combating infections. So whenever you are up for any procedure, try to boost your immunity through known strategies.

Here are some causes of rhinoplasty infection:

Combined Procedure

Infection of rhinoplasty can occur more often if you are having sinus surgery along it. This enhances the chance for bacteria present on the skin to invade through the surgical nasal site and cause infection.

Actinomyces Infection

Although rare, Actinomyces-associated infections can occur post rhinoplasty. This infection can cause tissue damage and fistula formation which can exerts destructive effects on the nose.

Compromised Care

Rhinoplasty can become infectious if proper hygienic conditions are not followed during operation causing bacterial contamination. Neglecting your aftercare routine can also lead to rhinoplasty infection.

Sinus Infections

Moreover sinus infection can also occur after rhinoplasty due to changes to nasal mucosa and skeleton.

💡Do you know that your own normal flora (bacteria present on your skin) can be the cause of rhinoplasty infection?

Rhinoplasty Infection – Signs & Symptoms

Infection following rhinoplasty generally appears 5 to 7 days post-surgery It can be characterized by:

• Inflammation: Redness and swelling of the surgical site. While some Inflammation after surgery is common, persistent swelling and redness indicates infection.
• Fever: Developing fever after rhinoplasty is not common so for this you should consult your expert.
• Intensity Of Pain: If pain is not relieving even with medications, it may indicate infection.
• Discharge: Any discharge or pus with unpleasant odour from the operative site is also a sign of rhinoplasty infection.
• Delayed Healing: Notice or calculate your healing period, if you are experiencing a delay in recovering then it can be due to an underlying infection.

To manage the rhinoplasty infection there are certain steps that you can follow:

• Seek Expert’s Advice: If you notice any unusual signs you should immediately consult your expert.
• Antibiotics: Your expert may prescribe antibiotics. It is essential to complete the course even if symptoms subside.
  • • An antibiotic ointment for moderate infection.
    • Oral or intravenous antibiotic for severe infections.
• Wound Care: Proper wound cleaning and dressing can help with the infection and ensure the sterility of the surgical sites.
• Nasal Rinsing: After a week use normal saline spray or drops to rinse your nose. This washes off the blood clots and also helps with the infection.
• Rest & Digest: Take proper rest from your routine work while eating healthy and staying hydrated to support your recovery.
• Close Monitoring: Keep an eye on the changes at your rhinoplasty site to address any uncertainties promptly.

How To Prevent Infection After Rhinoplasty?

Following preventive measures along with frequent follow up visits can be beneficial:

• Clinic Selection: Before scheduling your rhinoplasty, review the clinic or hospital to minimize postoperative complications.
• Antibiotics: Discuss with your surgeon about the use of antibiotics prior to surgery to prevent infection.
• Aftercare Routine: Follow the aftercare routine advised by your surgeon to support the healing process.
• Oral Hygiene: Carefully brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush to avoid unnecessary nasal movement.
• Avoid Premature Removal Of Plaster: Do not remove the plastic plaster from the nose for at least a week.
• Limit Physical Activity: Avoid exertional activities and use a soft diet for sometime.
• Sun Exposure: Avoid direct sun exposure for at least a month as it can increase the swelling and redness.
• Hand Hygiene: Clean your hands before touching your nose or wounds.
• Avoid Irritation: Don’t scratch or pick your nose and also all the things that can irritate your nasal mucosa.
• Limit Bacterial Exposure: Avoid crowded gatherings to reduce bacterial exposure.