Nasal Wash After Nose job: When, Why, and How to Do It Safely

Nasal washing (saline irrigation) is a vital yet often overlooked step in recovery after rhinoplasty or septoplasty. It improves comfort, reduces infection risk, and supports faster healing by keeping nasal passages clean.

Why Nasal Washing Matters

Benefits of Nasal Irrigation

After nose surgery, your nasal cavity heals from tissue manipulation, incisions, and swelling, producing dried blood, crusts, mucus buildup, and blockages. If not cleared, these can cause:

• Congestion and breathing difficulties

• Increased risk of infections or bad odors

How It Aids Recovery

Saline irrigation flushes debris, hydrates the nasal lining, and reduces the need to blow your nose, which is restricted post-surgery.

When to Start Nasal Washing

Do not begin nasal washing on your own without your surgeon’s approval. The internal tissues are very delicate during the first week.

• In most cases, saline irrigation is introduced 3 to 7 days after surgery, once the nasal splints (if used) are removed and initial healing has begun.
• For patients with septoplasty or turbinate reduction, your surgeon may recommend beginning sooner or later based on internal swelling.

Always follow the specific timing recommended by your surgeon, as starting too early can disrupt healing and cause bleeding.

Choosing the Right Nasal Wash

Recommended Solutions

Use only sterile, isotonic saline solutions:

• Pre-made saline sprays: Gentle, ideal for light rinsing and hydration.

• Nasal rinse kits (e.g., neti pot, squeeze bottle): For deeper cleaning, usually after 7–10 days.

Safety Precautions

Never use tap water; it may contain bacteria or parasites. For homemade solutions, use boiled and cooled or distilled water.

Performing Nasal Irrigation Safely

Once approved by your surgeon:

1. Wash hands thoroughly.

2. Lean over a sink, head tilted to one side.

3. Gently squeeze or pour saline into one nostril, letting it drain from the other or same side.

4. Repeat on the opposite side.

5. Blow gently or let fluid drain naturally—avoid forceful blowing.

6. Rinse the device with sterile water and air dry.

Do this 1–3 times daily as instructed. Stop if you experience burning, discomfort, or bleeding, and consult your surgeon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Risks of Improper Technique

• Starting too early: Can disrupt surgical sites and cause bleeding.

• Using unsterile water: Tap water may introduce harmful bacteria.

• Forcing saline aggressively: Can irritate healing tissues.

Other Pitfalls

• Blowing nose too hard: May undo irrigation benefits and cause complications.

• Skipping rinses: Prolongs congestion and delays recovery.

Consistency and proper technique are key for optimal healing.

Expert Advice from Dr. Boromand

ENT specialist and rhinoplasty surgeon Dr. Boromand emphasizes that gentle, regular nasal rinsing reduces inflammation, improves airflow, and lowers complication risks like infection. He tailors rinsing instructions to each patient’s surgery type and healing pace, especially for those traveling to Iran for rhinoplasty.