2.5 years post rhinoplasty - tip swelling periodically. What can cause this and how can I fix it? (Photos)

Question

I (28f) had a rhinoplasty 2,5 years ago. recently, the left side of the tip has been periodically swelling and getting red for a few days, taking about a week to subside and look normal again. i’m seeing my surgeon next month to inquire but wanted to get some information before that

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Swelling that keeps returning a year and a half or more after rhinoplasty has several possible explanations, and sorting them out requires an examination. Sometimes it is simply slow-resolving swelling; the tip is the last part of the nose to settle, particularly after revision rhinoplasty, and it can flare with heat, exercise, or salty food. Other possibilities include filler injected at some point that was never fully dissolved or removed, a chronically infected stitch, or an internalized cyst beneath the skin. Of particular concern is swelling that comes with redness and pain, which points more toward a bacterial source. If that is what you are experiencing, contact your surgeon and be examined in person promptly rather than waiting for your scheduled visit.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. If you are having intermittent swelling, then nighttime taping can help. I would discuss that with your surgeon. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D. FACS
Harvard-trained board certified plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D. FACS
Harvard-trained board certified plastic surgeon

Yasemin Aydinli, MD · Answer

When the same spot on the tip repeatedly becomes red and swollen and then settles within a week, the most common cause years after rhinoplasty is a deep permanent stitch, or less often a cartilage graft, that has become a focus of low grade inflammation or infection. Allergies or skin conditions tend to affect both sides and the skin more broadly. If it flares again before your appointment, try to be seen during the episode, as that is when it is easiest to diagnose. The usual treatment is removing the stitch through a small incision inside the nose, sometimes with a short course of antibiotics, and it rarely affects the shape of the nose.

2.5 years post rhinoplasty - tip swelling periodically. What can cause this and how can I fix it? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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