Bad Smell,is It an Infection?

Smoking is discouraged before any surgery because it can can slow down your healing process, but it generally will not cause a strange odor.  Sutures themselves do not cause an odor, but sometimes they can attract crust which can cause an odor.  Crusting is perfectly normal 3 weeks after rhinoplasty and can cause a strange odor up to two months after surgery.  Infection is rare in the nose, but I would call your surgeon to make an appointment so he can examine you and answer any questions you may have.

 

A bad odour can be a sign of infection, therefore you should see your surgeon if you have this concern. Dissolvable stitches can sometimes take months to dissolve, but it's best to ask your surgeon when you can expect for yours to dissolve.

Dryness and crusting inside of the nose can also contribute to a bad odor - typically nasal saline irrigations will help with this but you should first be seen by your surgeon

I read your concern, and you should consult your surgeon as soon as possible. Absorbable sutures in your nose do not typically lead to a bad smell. The common causes of a bad aroma after Rhinoplasty Surgery are: 1) bacterial sinusitis, 2) internal nasal crusting that may need to be professionally removed, 3) remaining packing (foreign body) in your nose, or 4)normal examination.

A diagnostic nasal endoscopy in the office should determine the cause, and your physician may then implement treatment.

I hope this is helpful for you.

Regards from NJ.

A bad smell in the nose after rhinoplasty can certainly be from an infection and it is worthy to contact your surgeon and be evaluated.

I have performed Rhinoplasty for over 20 years and a smell, in the nose, after a Rhinoplasty is an infection until proven otherwise.  IMHO, you should go to the plastic and cosmetic surgeon that did your Rhinoplasty for an examination and evaluation.

Cigarettes and sutures will not cause a bad smell in your nose 3 weeks after rhinoplasty, but an infection is unlikely. The odor is probably secondary to residual blood clots and mucus in nostrils swollen and congested after surgery. See your surgeon for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.