Rhinoplasty 4 days ago, feeling warm and had yellowish discharge this morning, is this an indication of infection? (Photos)

Question

My boyfriend had a rhinoplasty 4 days ago and his recovery seemed to be going well, he was consistently experiencing nausea and stomach aches, but we expected that from the prescription drugs he's been taking. Today when changing his gauze, there was a yellow discharge on the gauze but no sign of unusual discharge coming from the nose. He says that his entire body has been feeling warm also but he has a normal temperature. Is this an indication of infection? We are waiting to hear from surgeon

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

If your boyfriend had an infection, I would expect increased swelling and redness of the nose. The discharge from the picture looks very normal. In the absence of other symptoms, I would not be too concerned.

Deepak Raj Dugar, MD · Answer

Hello,I am sorry about your concerns. However, it is impossible for me to diagnose you with an infection without a proper in person consultation. I recommend waiting to hear from your doctor and setting up a consultation.All the best, Deepak Dugar, MDScarless Rhinoplasty ExpertBeverly Hills, CA 90210

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear bdkha,medicines used for anesthesia can cause nausea. Even though yellowish discharge and fever are common symptoms of infection it is hard to tell whether you have an infection without an examination. If you are concerned, I would suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Talmage J. Raine, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Nobody can diagnose an infection from a picture of drainage on a gauze. Drainage is normal after rhinoplasty. Questions about infection should be directed only to your surgeon with a follow-up visit. Stomach issues are common after rhinoplasty due to medication, but also due to swallowing blood that drains from the back of the nose. Talk to your surgeon.Best,Talmage Raine MD

Rhinoplasty 4 days ago, feeling warm and had yellowish discharge this morning, is this an indication of infection? (Photos)

Answers (4)