How Does Taping Help After A Rhinoplasty?

After a rhinoplasty (nose job), some patients are told by Dr. Shah to tape their nose during the recovery process.  Taping is where a small strip of tape is placed around the tip of the nose. This is only done at night, so patients are not required to venture out in public with this tape on their nose.

Taping is helpful for several reasons.

• Taping can decrease swelling. The nose may fluctuate in size during the postoperative period and taping can help decrease this fluctuation.
• It helps bring shape to the nose faster.
• Taping can help the skin adopt to the new underlying structure of the nose.  For example, if the skin is used to an overly round shape and the underlying structure has been reshaped, the skin can have some memory to it.  Think of those stretched out pants that used to fit.  Taping helps the skin adhere to the underlying structure and prevent scar tissue from developing in between the skin and the cartilage.

So, how do you tape your nose and should you tape your nose after a rhinoplasty?  It is important to consult your physician to make sure taping is appropriate for you.  We usually recommend two basic types of taping for the nose, deemed Type 1 and Type 2 (see videos below).

Do’s and Don’ts of Taping:

• Do be gentle. The nose is delicate postoperative, so do not aggressively apply or remove tape.
• Do use astringent or alcohol pads to remove excess residue left after tape removal
• Do listen Dr. Shah or your physician’s instructions regarding what method of taping to use, and how often
• Don’t continue taping if you experience reactions such as redness, breakouts, or irritation.
• Do use taping only when sleeping. Prolonged taping can allow oil to accumulate which can create more irritation to the nasal tip.
• Don’t take tape on and off. If tape is applied, do not remove and reapply in the same night. (For example, if tape is applied and then you discover you must run to the store; keep the tape on).