Tingling/itchy sensation 2.5 years post-op, could it be nerve damage?

Question

Hi there! I had a septorhinoplasty in 2022 and by and large, I'm very happy with the results. One thing I've noticed, however, is this somewhat persistent and mildly irritating itching sensation on the left side, near the supratip break. Sometimes it feels like it's deeper in my sinuses and radiating towards my eye. It is not painful, just annoying. Could this be nerve damage? Is it likely permanent at this point?

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If you are overall happy with the appearance of and function of your nose after rhinoplasty surgery, it is unlikely that you have any type of nerve damage. The most common neurological complaint after rhinoplasty is numbness of the lower 1/3 of the nose, and that tends to get better on just about everybody. Your itchiness is a bit of a conundrum.

Pawel Szychta, MD, PhD, DSc · Answer

Persistent itching near the supratip area after septorhinoplasty is often due to nerve regeneration, scar tissue, or sinus-related issues. It's unlikely to be permanent nerve damage, as itching usually indicates healing nerves. Since the sensation persists and sometimes radiates toward your eye, it's important to consult your surgeon or an ENT specialist for evaluation and personalized advice.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Rhinoplasty surgery can create certain changes in skin sensation.
Normal sensation typically develops overtime and whatever potential change usually becomes the new normal.
Some numbness of the tip is more common with an open rhinoplasty.
I think it’s highly unlikely you have any significant nerve damage and I also don’t think that there’s any real treatment for your nasal sensation.
Probably the best thing to do is simply ignore it.
Focusing on it too much may create an ongoing issue that should probably be downplayed. 
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Tingling/itchy sensation 2.5 years post-op, could it be nerve damage?

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Tingling/itchy sensation 2.5 years post-op, could it be nerve damage?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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