There’s nothing quite so low-key infuriating as when you think you’ve packed everything you need for a trip, only to realize that the one medically necessary item you need for the flight got left behind.
TikTok creator Kaitlyn Schultz (@kaitlyn.a.schultz) recently took a break from life in Texas to explore Florida beaches. She’d just had cosmetic surgery, and had forgotten an important post-surgery protocol. Because she got rhinoplasty, if she’s flying, she’s supposed to protect her nose.
Then as Schultz was settling in for her flight, she suddenly remembered she’s forgotten to pack her medical tape. Her newly operated-on nose was in danger of becoming swollen and misshapen. She started out, thinking she’d just lightly pinch it for the three hour journey. Not an entirely practical solution.
Luckily for her, a flight attendant came to the rescue. In a video that’s been viewed 3.1 million times, Schultz films herself in her seat, opening a couple of adhesive bandages. She pops the first one across the bridge of her nose, pressing downward. Then another goes across the tip of her nose with light upward pressure.
One user celebrated with Schultz. “Queens doing queen things,” said 870Wingmaster.
Some people wanted to know who did the work. “But who is the incredible doctor!?” asked Sydney Stevins. For those who’re curious, the work was done by Dr. Russell Frautschi at Austin Face & Body, per Schultz.
Generally speaking, flying fresh off a rhinoplasty requires you to tape it up to prevent swelling. It doesn’t look particularly fashionable, but it applies pressure to still-healing tissues. It’s necessary because “changes in cabin pressure can lead to increased swelling or discomfort in the nasal passages, sinuses and eustachian tube.” Additionally, the dry cabin air can dehydrate nasal passages, so traveling with a saline spray can help ease discomfort. Finally, sitting for too long can also cause swelling because of poor circulation.
Of course, the best tactic when flying after surgery is to have everything you need in your carry on. But in an instance like this, where the solution is simple, just talk to your flight attendant. Chances are very high that they’d have some bandages to spare. The Federal Aviation Authority mandates certain tools and medications be on-board for flights. These include an external defibrillator for heart attacks, a first aid kit, and an emergency medical kit. Contents are mandated for the kits, and specifically in the first aid kit, there are several types of bandages.
So if you’re traveling post cosmetic surgery (with your doctor’s blessing), consider a short stroll through the cabin and always pack your adhesive bandages. But travel easy, knowing that if you do forget your nose tape, the flight attendant can probably help you out.
BoardingArea reached out to Schultz via email and TikTok direct message. We will update this when she gets back to us.
@kaitlyn.a.schultz A true queen
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