Rhinoplasty: Q&A

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Breathing Problem Due to Internal Swelling or Scarring?

It's been three weeks since my primary open rhinoplasty, and I am still unable to breathe through the left side of my nose, which feels very congested. I can however breathe fine through my right side. The nurse told me that this was due to internal swelling on the left side. I'd like to know how long it will take for the internal swelling to go down? I am concerned that this may not be due to internal swelling, but rather scar formation under the nose.

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by Asha3000

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Breathing problems after open rhinoplasty

Could be either swelling or scar tissue formation. Your plastic surgeon will have to do a thorough internal evaluation to see if internal valve collapse, swelling, inflammation, deviated septum or scarring is causing the breathing problems. Good luck!

Babak Azizzadeh, MD

4 reviews

Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.facialplastics.info

Breathing problem after rhinoplasty

WIthout knowing what exactly was done, it is hard to say why you have specific obstruction on the one side. However, it is common for breathing to be a bit difficult due to swelling. Give it so me more time, but if concerned get evaluated by your doctor.

Steven Wallach, MD

13 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Breathing Problem Post Rhinoplasty

The breathing problem you describe may be secondary to swelling, scarring, or an anatomic narrowing of your nostrils 3 weeks after the operation. Your surgeon can examine you and answer your question.

Richard W. Fleming, MD

10 reviews

Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.bevhills.com

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Breathing Problem After Rhinoplasty

There are several possible reasons for the symptoms you describe, many being temporary. It will be best evaluated by your surgeon at your next visit, which hopefully is coming up soon. It is still early in the healing process, so don't get too discouraged yet.

Left sided congestion after rhinoplasty

Without seeing inside your nose we can't really say why you're having congestion on your left side only. You may have residual swelling inside the nose at this early stage, but other issues can't be ruled out without an examination. I'm sure your surgeon would be happy to see you to check things out.

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