Rhinoplasty Recovery Guide 👃 - 24 - Bloody Nasal Discharge After Rhinoplasty

Understanding Bloody Nasal Discharge After Rhinoplasty: Causes, Management, and Recovery

Bloody nasal discharge is to be expected for 3-5 days after any nasal surgery


After all nasal operations, it is normal to have nasal bleedng in the form of a drip or leak from the front and back of the nose, which lasts 3-5 days. The risk of nosebleeds is highest especially in the first 10 days after surgery. It is inconvenient for all the sporting activities (bending down, fast running ...)  which may cause sudden increases in blood pressure in the head area and the hot environment.

Why nose bleeding is seen after the rhinoplasty operation?

After the rhinoplasty operation, there may be bleeding from the application areas of the dot-shaped radiofrequency device on the turbinates due to the radiofrequency turbinate reduction process, which can be dripped from the mucosal incision areas. While bleeding is less after simple rhinoplasty operations; septoplasty operation and radiofrequency turbinate reduction can be more than the amount and duration of the expected nose bleeding after aesthetic nose operations.

What is Bloody Nasal Discharge?

Bloody nasal discharge, also known as epistaxis, refers to the presence of blood coming from the nostrils. It is a common occurrence after rhinoplasty and can range from mild to severe.

Causes of Bloody Nasal Discharge After Rhinoplasty

Several factors can contribute to bloody nasal discharge following rhinoplasty:

1. Surgical Trauma

During rhinoplasty, the delicate nasal tissues undergo manipulation, which can lead to minor bleeding. While surgeons take precautions to minimize trauma, some bleeding is inevitable during the procedure.

2. Nasal Packing

In some cases, surgeons may place nasal packing inside the nostrils to provide support and control bleeding during the initial healing period. The removal of nasal packing can cause temporary bleeding and discharge.

3. Swelling and Inflammation

Post-operative swelling and inflammation of the nasal tissues can disrupt blood vessels, leading to intermittent bleeding and discharge.

4. Dryness

Dry nasal passages, commonly experienced after surgery due to reduced nasal moisture production, can cause irritation and minor bleeding.

5. Medication Side Effects

Certain medications prescribed during the post-operative period, such as blood thinners or nasal sprays, can increase the risk of bleeding and nasal discharge.

Management of Bloody Nasal Discharge

1. Gentle Nasal Care

• Saline Irrigation: Use saline nasal sprays or rinses to keep the nasal passages moist and promote healing.
• Avoid Nose Blowing: Refrain from blowing your nose forcefully, as it can exacerbate bleeding and disrupt healing.

2. Humidification

• Use a Humidifier: Running a humidifier in your room can help maintain optimal nasal moisture levels and prevent dryness.

3. Medication Management

• Follow Prescribed Regimen: Adhere to your surgeon's instructions regarding medication usage, particularly blood thinners and nasal sprays.
• Topical Treatments: Your surgeon may recommend topical medications to alleviate nasal dryness and irritation.

4. Nasal Packing Removal

• Professional Removal: If nasal packing was placed during surgery, have it removed by your surgeon as scheduled. The removal process should be gentle to minimize discomfort and bleeding.

5. Rest and Avoidance of Strenuous Activity

• Limit Physical Exertion: Avoid activities that could increase blood pressure and exacerbate nasal bleeding, such as heavy lifting or vigorous exercise.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While mild bleeding and nasal discharge are common after rhinoplasty, certain signs warrant immediate medical attention:

• Excessive Bleeding: Persistent or profuse bleeding that does not subside with gentle pressure.
• Clot Formation: Large blood clots obstructing the nasal passages.
• Signs of Infection: Fever, increasing pain, or foul-smelling discharge.
• Worsening Symptoms: Increasing nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or changes in nasal appearance.

Recovery Process

Short-Term Recovery

• Patience: Understand that bloody nasal discharge is a normal part of the initial healing process.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up visits with your surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
• Rest and Hydration: Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated to support your body's recovery.

Long-Term Recovery

• Be Mindful of Activities: Avoid activities that could increase the risk of nasal trauma or bleeding, especially in the first few weeks post-surgery.
• Sun Protection: Protect your nose from sun exposure to prevent complications and promote optimal healing.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, avoid smoking, and follow your surgeon's recommendations for post-operative care.

Prevention Tips for Minimizing Bloody Nasal Discharge

Preoperative Preparation

• Medical History Review: Provide your surgeon with a comprehensive medical history, including any medications or supplements you are taking.
• Medication Adjustment: Discuss the management of medications that may increase the risk of bleeding with your surgeon before surgery.

Postoperative Care

• Strictly Follow Instructions: Adhere to all post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon, including medication usage and activity restrictions.
• Gentle Nasal Care: Handle your nose with care, and avoid picking or manipulating the nasal tissues.

Bloody nasal discharge after rhinoplasty is a common occurrence and typically resolves with proper care and time. Understanding the causes, management strategies, and recovery process associated with this complication is essential for patients undergoing rhinoplasty. By following the guidance provided in this article and maintaining open communication with your surgeon, you can navigate the post-operative period with confidence and achieve optimal results from your rhinoplasty procedure.

The information in this guide was prepared by Dr.Murat Enöz for patients who underwent rhinoplasty. 
You can find different opinions and suggestions from other clinics and doctors. Please take into consideration 
the recommendations of the doctors who performed your aesthetic nose surgery. Sometimes drug names given here 
only in Turkey may also belong to the drugs found. Plenty of luck :)

Murat Enoz, MD, Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon - ENT Doctor in Istanbul

Private Office:

Address: İncirli Cad. No:41, Kat:4 (Dilek Patisserie Building), Postal code: 34147, Bakırköy - İstanbul
Appointment Phone: +90 212 561 00 52

E-Mail: muratenoz@gmail.com
Mobile phone: +90 533 6550199

Fax: +90 212 542 74 47