Taping after rhinoplasty is necessary to reduce swelling. During the early recovery period, the soft tissues of the nose may swell, especially in the area of the tip of the nose. Swelling usually increases in the evening and at night when lying down. The tape provides additional support and tension to the skin to reduce swelling. Rhinoplasty changes the shape of the cartilage under the skin, and taping helps the soft tissue to better integrate with the new underlying structures.
The tapes should be placed on the nose with slight tension according to the diagram below. Start with tapes perpendicular to the bridge of the nose, then a curved strip of tape around the tip of the nose, and finally an additional cross tape just above the tip of the nose.
Micropore 12mm wide skin-colored paper tape is best for taping, but other similar tapes are also suitable.
After rhinoplasty, the nose usually needs to be taped at night for 2 weeks after the splint is removed.
