Asian Rhinoplasty Q&A
61%
WORTH IT RATING
"Worth It Rating" shows the % of consumer reviewers that stated the procedure was "Worth It" or not. See more RealSelf Worth It Ratings or Add Your Review
20 Reviews
Asian Rhinoplastybefore & after photos
View Before and Afters

Average Asian Rhinoplasty Cost: $5,082

Learn about Asian Rhinoplasty

145 people and 211 doctors are talking about Asian Rhinoplasty

Get Free Email Updates

Permanent Suture and Metal Plates in my Nose Causing Irritation?

asked 3 years ago by Nordic in China
Latest answer by Oakley Smith, MD
Question viewed 1,369 times
Tags: 5 years post-op, multiple, revision, septum, sutures

In order to safeguard the stability of my nose, a permanent suture and two tiny metal plates were used to hold my nasal septum in place. This procedure took place during my fourth and latest rhinoplasty which is now 5 years ago, after which I have had recurring nasal swelling problems. I asked my question as a way for me to find out if I can eliminate "the permanent suture + metal plates" from the list of "suspects" behind my nasal dilemma. Thanks ever so much for your informed help!!

 

9 answers to Permanent Suture and Metal Plates in my Nose Causing Irritation?

+3

The swelling that you have is probably not caused by either

Metal plates are usually removed after a few weeks. The permanent sutured would only cause a "pimple" if it was coming out. You should consult with a Revision Rhinoplasty specialist, especially since you have had so many surgeries. Many surgeons may say they are, but I'm sure you have found out the hard way that they are not.
Toby Mayer, MD

Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Permanent sutures and metal plates in the nose.

Permanent sutures are common with Rhinoplasty. Metal plates are rare. It could be a metal screw but this would be out under the skin of your cheek. Ask you last surgeon or get an xray. It most likely just a suture which can be removed if needed.
Oakley Smith, MD

Toronto Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Metal nasal implants likely Mitek anchors

Dear Nordic - I would echo the sentiment of my colleagues. However, my suspicion is that you have a Mitek anchor or metal screw in your face with a permanent suture passing into the nose from the cheek to hold the nasal airway open. These are used relatively infrequently and infection around the suture or anchor is not uncommon. Best of luck. Dr. Stephen Weber - Portland, OR
Stephen Weber, MD

Lone Tree Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Metal can irritate the nose

There are many surgeons who use nasal stents after certain procedures for a limited time. Silastic sheeting may be placed in the nose temporarily to help keep the nose straight.  The risk of leaving something in the nose for a long time is irritation, movement and extrusion.  Consult with the original surgeon.
Robert Mounsey, MD

Toronto Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Irritation from sutures and metal plates

It is possible that the sutures and metal plates that have been left in your septum may be causing the irritation and drainage. At this time, you should return to the surgeon to perform the surgery and ask if the metal plates can be taken out safely as well as the suture. The removal of these devices should help resolve the irritation and possible infection.  
B. Pat Pazmino, MD

Miami Plastic Surgeon
+1

Recurrent swelling with foreign material in place may signal an infection

It is unusual, but not unheard of, for permanent sutures and metal plates to be placed during rhinoplasty. I suspect that you may have a serious issue with your nose if metal plates were required. If you are continuing to have problems with the plates, it may mean that you have a subclinical infection occurring. You should go back to your plastic surgeon for an evaluation; you may need some sort of imaging procedure such as a CT-scan of your nose and facial bones. If the plates are indeed... more
Kevin Brenner, MD

Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
+1

Metal plates and sutures from Rhinoplasty

It is unusual for patients to have metal plates in their nose after rhinoplasty. A permanent suture is more common. If these are causing irritation then they can be removed.
Steven Wallach, MD

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
+1

Advanced Rhinoplasty and Secondary Rhinoplasty

I see patients with foreign bodies in their nose after secondary or tertiary rhinoplasty.  These foreign bodies can often cause a reaction and should be evaluated closely to see if they are potentially causing more harm in the long term. I perform rib grafts on the nose for these advanced cases.
Raffy Karamanoukian, MD

Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
+1

Metal plate and sutures can be removed

The metal plates and sutures can be removed since they are causing swelling and pain and irritation at this point. They are probably not creating any structural support since it has been five years status post rhinoplasty.
William Portuese, MD

Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon

Ask a question