Publication:

Comparison of anterior nasal packing and absence of packing after rhinoplasty

Background Increased safety in the anesthesia and its techniques as well as the improved newer techniques, better outcome of this surgery have prompted many to undergo cosmetic surgeries such as rhinoplasty. The side effects observed are nasal obstruction, edema of the face, periorbital swelling and ecchymosis, which are of a great concern, and said to be aggravated with the anterior nasal packing.

Methods 100 patients between 18-45 years of age, with nasal trauma were included in the study. Bilateral lateral osteotomies was performed in all patients, with anterior nasal packing done for control group and only external immobilization was done for the study group.

Results No statistical difference was found between the two groups with regards to age and sex. However, there was a significant difference in severity and duration of periorbital ecchymosis in the different groups. On the 3rd day after the operation, more than one half of the unpacked study group (58.0%) showed ecchymosis of grade 1 or less compared with only 14.0%. in the control group. On the 7th post-operative day however, both sides showed improvement to grade 1 or less in 98.0% and 40.0% of unpacked and packed sides, respectively.

Conclusions Anterior nasal packing post rhinoplasty with lateral osteotomies plays a significant role in the resultant ecchymosis and it should be only used when necessary.