Did my rhinoplasty cause a deviated septum? (Photos)

The nose is never perfectly straight, even after rhinoplasty. A deviated septum is very common and present to various degrees before and after surgery. Three months is generally considered very early after rhinoplasty and many issues are typically due to swelling, which gradually resolve with time. In addition, open rhinoplasty procedures tend to cause more swelling as compared to closed rhinoplasty. Best,Dr. Chaboki

It is still early after your rhinoplasty and there is always residual swelling which can be both internal and external. From your photos this appears to be mild.The deflection of the septum that you notice could easily be some swelling around the incisions which are made internally . Therefore, some degree of swelling may be asymmetrical. It is best at this stage to wait and keep in touch with your surgeon since it can take up to a year for the tissues to settle and the swelling to resolve. 

Thank you for your post. The asymmetrical appearance is most likely the result of unresolved swelling and should resolve with time. If you notice any asymmetry 1 year post-op then you can discuss additional treatment options but until then patience is key. Best of luck!
Dr. Dhaval M.Patel
Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Chicago-Water Tower Place, Oakbrook, Hoffman Estates, Orland Park

A gross deviation of the nasal septum after rhinoplasty is not common.  Mild deviation can happen but in your case appears to be very subtle.  It is very unlikely that it is the cause of you Nasal obstruction.  Most likely the postoperative swelling is the reason.  You should give it more time for the swelling to subside completely.  After a few months if the obstruction persists then you should be evaluated by an otolaryngologist to rule out any allergies, turbinate hypertrophy or narrowing of the nasal valve.Regards Dr. J

Your photos demonstrate swelling, which is normal at 3 months after rhinoplasty. I would keep an eye on things for at least one year from surgery, as swelling resolves for at least that long. Additionallly, the intranasal incision is still swollen and is visible in one of your photos. This area will also improve and open up your nasal valve, which is the area of highest resistence in your nose. Be patient as things heal.

Hi,Healing from a rhinoplasty can take a very long time, up to a year. It is not uncommon to have swelling and difficulty breathing for many months after surgery.  Since you are only 3months out from your surgery I would suggest waiting for the swelling to continue to go down, at least another 3 months to see if you have any improvement by then.  Keep in contact with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon throughout your healing process.

I am sorry to hear that you're having difficulty breathing following septorhinoplasty.  It is still early after surgery and with a rhinoplasty in particular healing and reduction of swelling can take 6 months or longer.  In some cases after septoplasty the caudal portion of the septum at the bottom or portion nearest the opening can slip off of the anterior nasal spine where it is attached and deviated into the nostril.  It is early in recovery however continue to follow up with your surgeon and continued to express her concerns.  If after 1 year problem persists then a revision of the septum may be necessary.  If the obstruction is worse when you brief in internal nasal valve collapse is another possible concern.