Nose whistling after Rhinoplasty?

Question

I had a cosmetic rhinoplasty done about five to six months ago and just recently, like within the past three weeks, it has started whistling when I breath. But only thru the left nostril. I've been using saline solution and a lubricating gel and nothing helps. Also it's in my left nostril and it gets worse when I sleep on my right side, its very strange. Can I fix it or should I go to a doctor?

Sirius K. Yoo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You should see your surgeon to be evaluated.  Likely it is something that will get better on its own, but sometimes whistling can be from a septal perforation as a complication of septorhinoplasty.  In this case, usually a surgical correction is required to close the perforation and relive the whistling.

Sergio Pasquale Maggi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.I would suggest you see your surgeon for a post-operative exam.If persistent it may require a surgical procedure to correct.This is something one would like addressed sooner than later.I hope this helps,Sergio Pasquale Maggi, MDAustin Plastic Surgery Centerdrmaggi.com

Julian W. Dixon, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I concur with the other opinions expressed here, the biggest concern would be  the presence of a hole in the nasal septum. This ofter presents with a complaint of whistling. It may also be due to a persistent crust or valve collapse. Certainly a visit to your surgeon or an expert rhinoplasty surgeon in your area would be prudent. Hope this helps.

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello G.H.P. ,I would recommend you follow up with your surgeon to evaluate the problem.  This can be something as simple as crusting present in the nose or something as complex as a hole in the middle of the nose.  Since it has developed 6 months after surgery I would not expect it resolve on its own because most of your swelling from the surgery should be gone by now.  Since you mentioned it is only on one side and is affected by position changes my initial thought is that the left side has become more narrow, either from scar tissue or possibly the bones falling inwards if osteotomies were performed.  As I mentioned above, I would recommend you see your surgeon for an evaluation to provide specific recommendations.  I hope this helps and good luck.

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi, you may want to return and see your Rhinoplasty Surgeon.  Whistling post Rhinoplasty is an anterior (in the front) septal perforation until proven otherwise.  If this exists, it does require some additional nasal hygiene care beyond that required with normal Rhinoplasty healing.

Nose whistling after Rhinoplasty?

Answers (5)

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