Lion-like nose after rhinoplasty (Photo)

Question

I had a closed rhinoplasty to reduce the tip width and droopiness, hump, and width of the bridge. When the splint was on my nose looked good but once it was off I was left with a flat nose. It's been 11 days since the surgery and I've been so sad lately since I'm more self conscious. The nurses told me he broke the bones of the bridge but the bridge does appear wider. When I touch the wide parts they're hard so it must be bone, not swollen soft tissue... I'm scared it'll be stuck like this.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Swelling early after surgery can be quite significant and can really mask any results.Kenneth Hughes, MD

Bahman Guyuron, MD · Answer

Your nose is still very swollen and it will change. In an unlikely event that it would not become narrow enough it can be refined. You do not need to be scared. Taping your nose may help. You may want to discuss this with your surgeon. Also please limit your salt intake.

Hagen Schumacher, PhD, FRCS(Plast), FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hello,

At this stage you don't need to worry too much. Especially after you had your nose broken you can expect a lot of swelling. It is only 11 days after your surgery so things will get better. Stay in touch with your surgeon and be patient. After about 6 months you will see the more definite results.

Sachin S. Pawar, MD · Answer

Hang in there and be patient! You are still very early in the post-operative period and significant swelling is still expected at this point in time. In fact, it will take about 1 month for 60-70% of the initial swelling to subside with the remaining swelling slowly diminishing over the course of one year. I would encourage you to follow-up closely with your surgeon and discuss any concerns you may have as your healing progresses. Good luck!

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and photos.  Since it has only been 11 days since your rhinoplasty, a significant amount of swelling is bound to be there.  As time passes the swelling will go down and you should start seeing the final result.  Taping at night or at home when not at work/school may be beneficial to help the swelling subside a little faster.  Once the swelling has subsided you and your plastic surgeon can sit down and discuss the final result and what if anything you would need to do to improve the appearance.Good luck with the remainder of your nose shaping recovery.Dr. Remus Repta

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It seems that you are very swollen and will have to give it time to settle down. Please be patient with the results.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

This is swelling. The nose can be extremely swollen after surgery and you need to give it time to recede.  Have patience. It is also quite normal, in my opinion, to have a post surgical let down because the results are not readily apparent. Best wishes.

Lion-like nose after rhinoplasty (Photo)

Answers (7)

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