Are Dark Circles After Rhinoplasty Permanent?

Your current concern suggests that there was moderate bruising after your surgery. This can lead to staining of the tissues with haemosiderin, a break-down chemical of haemoglobin. It affects more frequently the lower eyelids but can also occasionally affect he upper eyelids. The timeframe for this to settle is considerably longer than for simple bruising and can last for 4-6 months but generally clears completely.In some instances, the impression circles is due to the change in position of the nasal bones and the perception that the circles under the eyes are more visible. This is best addressed with fillers but after the swelling has settled better.The most likely scenario is that you will not need to do anything special about it apart from using some good camouflage makeup until they clear.

It is not unusual to have modest to slight bruising under the eyes after rhinoplasty. This is more prominent when the surgery involves the nasal bones. To reduce the incidence of bruising we have our patients off of supplements and medication that increase bleeding times. Arnica Montana is helpful. Once the Bruising is there you could have signs of it for 6 to 8 weeks but that's unusual. If it's bruising then it should totally resolve. Sometimes the pigment in the hemoglobin can be retained in the skin.This could require laser removal 3 to 6 months post op. 

Thank you for your question. Fortunately, what you are experiencing is very common. The dark circles will eventually go away. It may take about 6 months for them to go away completely. It is important to be patient. Best of luck!Dhaval M. PatelDouble board certifiedPlastic surgeonHoffman EstatesBarrintonOakbrookChicago