Why is there a discoloration on the tip of nose after 4 years since my rhinoplasty?

 I have previously undergone tiplasty by redefining it with septal cartilage 4 years ago and recently I noticed there was a purply/bluish spot on the tip of my nose but when I press on it gently the spot goes away. This has happened 3 times now over a period of 2 weeks and it came at sporadic times and with no apparent reasons. I want to know is this spot occuring because of an infection underneath my skin and how serious is it? And is it normal for an infection to occur even after years of recovery? I am of asian decent and have thick skin on my nose if that helps. Thank you very much for your expertise!

2 answers to “Why is there a discoloration on the...”

A: Nasal Tip Discoloration

Richard W. Fleming, MD

There are several possible explanations for the skin color, but an infection is not likely one of them. It my be due to pressure from the underlying tip cartilage. Small vessels within the skin  could dilate to give this appearance.  Consult with your surgeon or another physician.

A: Discoloration After Rhinoplasty

C. Spencer Cochran, MD

Discoloration of the nasal skin following rhinoplasty can be a result of several different things.  If dissection was carried out too close to the surface during surgery, this can predispose the patient to developing changes in coloration and broken capillaries (telangiectasias).  This can often be... more

Comments

Dana Fiore
3 posts
22 Apr 2009

I also got hit in the nose but it was after my bump appeared so i dont think they have any correlation - just thought i would give u background just in case.

Leslie Kutz
3 posts
22 Apr 2009

I dont know why I have a bump on the right side of my nose & not the left side - is there a reason for this - it didnt appear the first 2 months - it appeared by the 4 th month about & now it has been here for 4 years

MagsRO
unregistered guest

16 Jun 2009

I read your post and I had rhinoplasty about 5-6 years ago. Ever since I have a discolored (very white) spot on the right side of my nose. I don't stay in the sun so I know it was not caused by excessive sun exposure. I wondered also what could have caused it, it bothers me since I have to cover it with quite a bit of make up every day... Unfortunately the doctor who performed my surgery did a lousy job, he even stitched the nose back crooked, I just couldn't afford to get plastic corrective surgery...

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