Nose scrunches up after rhinoplasty. Is there hope of this resolving? (Photo)

Question

I am 3 months post op. I’ve realized that when I laugh or smile hard my the sides of my nose scrunch up while my columella remains in place and it gives off a witchy vibe. This did not happen to me before and now I have bunny lines when I laugh. Interestingly, the side of my nose that is less swollen scrunches up even more, creating unevenness. So is there hope of this issue resolving or not?

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

It is very difficult to evaluate an up close photo of somebody's nasal tip. Please consider re-asking a question with better photographs so the experts can evaluate them and provide a better answer for you. Thanks.

Pawel Szychta, MD, PhD, DSc · Answer

It's common to experience changes in facial expressions and new lines around the nose three months after surgery. The "bunny lines" and scrunching you're noticing when you laugh or smile are often due to temporary swelling, muscle adjustments, or the healing process affecting the surrounding tissues. As your nose continues to heal and swelling decreases, these issues may improve over time. The unevenness between the two sides could also balance out as healing progresses. It's important to discuss your concerns with your surgeon, who can assess your specific situation and provide guidance on whether this is a normal part of recovery or if any additional steps are needed.

Nose scrunches up after rhinoplasty. Is there hope of this resolving? (Photo)

Answers (2)