I had Open Rhinoplasty/Septoplasty 3 days ago. My uvula feels stretched out and is touching back of my tongue making me gag.

Question

I can feel it flutter when speaking or need to cough. The tip of my uvula looks white? Is this swelling or was my uvula damaged from the tube going down my throat during surgery. Most importantly, how long will it take to heal? I see my surgeon today, so I'll have him take a look at it.

Stephen J. Pincus, MD · Answer

If you had an endotracheal tube in place during your procedure, it is possible that your uvula is swollen. It generally resolves on its own. In the occasion case where that has been an issue with my patients, I have had them gargle with cold salt water and have given them oral steroids for one week.

David J. Kiener, MD · Answer

Swelling of the uvula after surgery utlilizing general anesthesia is not unusual. It is generally caused from irritation by the endotracheal  tube used to maintan the airway. That is a very sensitive area so the discomfort is considerable even though the issue is not serious. It should resolve after 7-10 days. It is possible to develop an infection in the area that could require antibiotics. Thank  you for the question,David J. Kiener MD

Michael T. Somenek, MD · Answer

If you had general anesthesia during your rhinoplasty and had a breathing tube placed, it is not out of the question that your uvula may have sustained some type of local trauma from the endotracheal tube. This is something to address with your rhinoplasty surgeon and have them examine the area to determine if anything can be done to improve this for you. Good luck.

I had Open Rhinoplasty/Septoplasty 3 days ago. My uvula feels stretched out and is touching back of my tongue making me gag.

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

I had Open Rhinoplasty/Septoplasty 3 days ago. My uvula feels stretched out and is touching back of my tongue making me gag.

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.