Efficacy of adhesive strips to reduce postoperative periorbital edema and ecchymosis following rhinoplasty

Abstract

Background/aim: Periorbital edema and ecchymosis may develop following rhinoplasty. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacyof adhesive strip application on the upper and lower eyelids to reduce postoperative edema and ecchymosis following rhinoplasty.Materials and methods: The eyelids of one side were randomly selected, and an adhesive strip of standard size and number was appliedat the end of the operation. The strips were removed at postoperative day 3; photos of the eyes were taken at days 3 and 7. Edema andecchymosis were graded on a scale from 1 to 4. The ecchymosis areas on the lower and upper eyelids were measured and compared insquare centimeters.Results: The mean ecchymosis area of the lower eyelid on the side of the adhesive strip and on the side without the strip was 1.63 cm2and 3.32 cm2 in the early period, respectively. It was 1.15 cm2 on the upper eyelid on the side of the adhesive strip, and 1.87 cm2 onthe side without the strip. It was 0.224 cm2 on the side of the adhesive strip, and 0.498 cm2 on the side without the adhesive strip in thelate period.Conclusion: Applying adhesive strips reduces periorbital edema and ecchymosis.