Is it normal for the nose to change shape after the cast has been removed?

Dear Stampella,

It is still very early in your healing process after rhinoplasty.  If it looked good after your cast removal, it should look good after it heals up.  The initial bulk of swelling takes about 2 weeks to come down, but the final result won't be permanent until about the six month mark.  There are also patient factors like the thickness of the skin which can delay healing.

As you heal, the skin will start contracting, or shrink wrapping, around your nasal skeleton.  So a little patience goes a long way.

Sometimes a course of oral steroids can help bring down the swelling a little more quickly, but that decision would have to be made by you and your surgeon. 

Best,

Nima Shemirani

It’s not unusual for patients to note swelling when their nasal splints are removed. The presence of a splint molds the nasal bones in place following rhinoplasty. It also helps to diminish swelling. For these reasons it’s not unusual for the nose to suddenly swell when splints are removed. It’s important to realize that this swelling is normal and resolves with the passage of time.
                Most patients will note significant swelling for about two to three weeks following surgery. After two weeks, most patients are able to resume their normal lives and go out in public.

                Swelling will persist in most patients for at least one year following surgery, with the nasal tip being the last site to experience resolution. In the immediate post-operative period, nasal splints, elevation of the head, and ice can be used to minimize swelling. 

Hello,Yes, what you are describing is very normal after cast removal. Initial swelling takes much longer to subside unfortunately. It usually takes 1-3 years for the swelling to fully go down after a rhinoplasty. The tip takes the longest time to heal and mold to the new framework because it is the thickest skin of the nose. The skin over the profile is thinner than the skin over the tip. Patience is required during this healing phase. Give it some time and in a couple months if you still don't feel confident consult your doctor.All the best, Deepak Dugar, MDScarless Rhinoplasty ExpertBeverly Hills, CA 90210

In general, swelling after rhinoplasty takes months and months to fully resolve. You'll notice your nose is swollen at the moment, especially since you've just had your cast removed. The initial swelling may disappear after 2 weeks, but that doesn't mean you still don't have any swelling right now. You should wait at least a year before considering revision rhinoplasty.

Thank you for your question!



It is understandable that you are
concerned. 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. After removal of cast, swelling dynamics tend to act as the tissue continues finding its way down the healing path.



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 subsides, 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