Loss of Smell After Rhinoplasty?

asked 3 years ago by spaz in miami, florida
Latest answer by William Portuese, MD
Question viewed 1,299 times

I was wondering, is there a loss of smell after Rhinoplasty? If so, for how long? Also, can a turbinate be caused by surgery?

3 answers to Loss of Smell After Rhinoplasty?

Loss of smell is temporary

There is a temporary loss of smell from the rhinoplasty due to the swelling that is present on the nasal passageways. Patients are physically unable to get airflow through their nose, especially if they had a septoplasty done at the same time. Turbinate surgery is also sometimes performed to improve the airflow dynamics through the nose.

William Portuese, MD
Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.seattlefacial.com

Sense of smell after rhinoplasty

Temporary loss of smell and sometimes an associated diminished taste sensation after rhinoplasty is not unusual and tends to improve over 3-6 weeks. More permanent causes can occur but are rare. Turbinates occur naturally and are not caused by surgery but can be treated by them

Otto Joseph Placik, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon

Loss of smell with rhinoplasty

It is possible but rare. It is very important to differentiate complete loss of smell or decreased smell. Complete loss can be permanent and could be related to injury to the smell nerve (Olfactory nerve) during surgery. You should see an Otolaryngologist for smell test. You can also look up a smell and taste center near you. If smell is decreased, it is likely temporary from nasal congestion which is common after rhinoplasty and will get better with time. Turbinates can become swollen... more

Tanveer Janjua, MD
Bedminster Facial Plastic Surgeon

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Loss of Smell After Rhinoplasty?

Loss of smell is temporary

Sense of smell after rhinoplasty

Loss of smell with rhinoplasty

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