Nose shrink forever due to scar contracture years after Rhinoplasty? (photos)

Question

Will all noses shrink forever after a rhinoplasty like lil Kim's nose? Her nose shrank each year little by little after her primary rhinoplasty. Eventually you could see her cartilages and she only got rhinoplasty once. How/why does this happen? How can you prevent this? I'm regretting getting rhinoplasty now

Mark Been, MD · Answer

After a single rhinoplasty, the nose should not continue to shrink indefinitely. Swelling, especially in the tip may take a full year to dissipate, after which time the nose should be stable in appearance. That being said, If too much cartilage is removed and there is a poor support structure, the nose may contract. That is why it is important to have your surgery performed by an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon (facial plastic or plastic surgeon). Hope this helps!

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Because of swelling the skin may appear to become thinner in the nose to shrink after a rhinoplasty. Most patients find is favorable. The skin would never be thinner than original unless the patient was treated excessively with steroids. This can cause unwanted thinning of the skin.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

I am unaware as to the surgery Lil Kim received. It
actually takes up to one full year for the nose to completely heal, but around
three to four months after the surgery the changes will be the most
obvious. Up through the four-month mark
the nasal structure will be fragile as it mends and heals. It is important to refrain from exercise that might cause an accidental bump to your nose. Even having glasses sit on your nose may change the shape of your mending nose. I suggest you consult a board certified facial plastic surgeon
to receive the highest quality knowledge, treatment, care and skill available.

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

Shrinking of the nose soft tissues occurs for 5 years following rhinoplasty surgery; however, the shrinkage is more subtle that Lil Kim. Unfortunately, your facts are not quite correct, as she has definitely had more than one rhinoplasty as her "shrinkage" is not quite right.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

We don't know exactly what was done to Lil Kim's nose.  Looking at her photos it appears she has had more than one Rhinoplasty.  I have never seen a nose shrink like that without additional surgery.  Consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for an in person exam to discuss your options.

Nose shrink forever due to scar contracture years after Rhinoplasty? (photos)

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Answer: Nose shrinking after rhinoplasty

Answer: Nose shrinking after rhinoplasty

Answer: Scars Contracture

Answer: Scars Contracture

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Nose shrink forever due to scar contracture years after Rhinoplasty? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Nose shrinking after rhinoplasty

Answer: Nose shrinking after rhinoplasty

Answer: Scars Contracture

Answer: Scars Contracture

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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