7 weeks post op of Rhinoplasty, I have uneven on one side and swelling not going down. Is this normal?

Recovery after rhinoplasty will vary based on the person, characteristics of the nasal tissues and what was done during surgery. Immediately after the splint or cast is removed, it is common for the nose to look more defined. After the compression has been removed, the skin and soft tissues can swell and this can take weeks to months to significantly improve. After rhinoplasty, tip shape is typically the last thing to settle before seeing the final result; this can take 12 months or longer in patients with thick, oily skin. My experience has been that edema may take 18 months or longer to resolve. During this time you will notice that the size of your tip decreases as swelling resolves and subtle details and tip definition appear. Additionally, the tip may descend causing the tip to rotate downwards (depending on what was done during surgery). Around the 4-6 week mark, most patients are able to appreciate most of the changes from surgery as a significant amount of swelling has resolved. However, it can take somewhere in and around 12-18 months to see the final results. The areas with thicker skin in the nose such as the tip, alar rims and radix will require longer to settle. In some cases, swelling can occur asymmetrically where one are is more swollen and takes longer to settle than other areas. It's hard but important to stay patient during your recovery and to be diligent attending your follow-up appointments with your surgeon.

Thank you for your question!It is understandable that you are concerned especially with the asymmetry of your nose bridge. Changes after rhinoplasties vary with every patient and what you are experiencing is normal especially that swelling takes time to subside as it masks the results of your surgery.Without a physical exam it is not possible to provide you with a definitive medical answer.However, it is important to keep in mind that it is early to pass a judgment. Usually, a year is required before formulating how your nose will be. Even then, your nose will keep shaping itself and to complement your face for better results in the years to come.My best recommendations at the moment is to be patient, allow nature to take its course and edema subsides for better results. There is no doubt that once the swelling resolves, more definition and shape will be achieved and you should be happier with the results.Also, it is important that you keep communicating with your surgeon and work as a team together to achieve the best results possible.Congratulations on your surgery and please remain positive!Ali Sajjadian, MD FACS

Hello,Thanks for your question.At seven weeks your are in the very early phases of tissue healing.  As the healing process progresses over the next several months (usually by 7 to 9 months) you, and your surgeon, will be better able to assess your concerns.Thank you,S.P. Maggi, MD, FACSAustin Plastic Surgery Center