Can't smell or taste after nose surgery.

Thank you for the question. Changes in the sense of smell can happen after septoplasty, rhinoplasty, or other nasal surgery (e.g., sinus surgery). In many cases, the sensation will return with time. In the interim, it is important to see your surgeon and also and ENT. A second opinion may be helpful to get a better assessment of the situation. Take care.

That is strange.  Review the operation with your surgeon- did you have septoplasty work also?? I have not heard of this complication in standard rhinoplasty procedures.  After rhinoplasty I recommend waiting a full year for all usual issues to resolve.  Best Wishes!!

To add to the other responses, I typically tell patients to use nasal saline spray as well postoperatively as it can wash out debris and keep your noise noise and clean. This can help the healing process occur quicker but it can even take up to one year. After one year, you should see improvement. If not, discuss with your surgeon regarding the procedure if there was anything different they had to do, etc. Hope this helpsDr Miguel

Hello and thanks for posting your question!!Changes in taste and smell can occur after rhinoplasty, septal and turbinate operations. Typically these changes are temporary and return to close to baseline by the time full recovery is expected. In nasal surgery I usually tell my patients that swelling can persist for up to and sometimes beyond 1 year. It is reasonable to discuss your observations with your plastic surgeon and they will be able to counsel you in expected recovery.Best wishes

Loss of smell can occur rarely after nasal surgery. Being able to smell is a function of specialized nerves.  It is rare but in certain nasal surgeries especially in people with very wide bones and large bumps they may have nerves that get pulled or stretched.  Your surgeon is correct in not knowing when and if your sense of smell will improve after 5 Months. Having said that, nasal surgery sometimes can affect drainage from the sinuses causing them to get backed up and this can affect smelling (similar to when you get a cold).  Ask your doctor whether any other studies would be helpful to rule out other causes.