Did my rhinoplasty cause a deviated septum? (Photos)

Question

I had an open septo/rhinoplasty done almost 3 months ago. My septum was not noticeably crooked but when examined, my doctor told me it was slightly deviated and he wanted to fix it. After surgery I noticed the bottom portion of my septum is deflected to the left. It is difficult to breathe through the left nostril and it is causing very slight asymmetry. My Dr said don't worry because it's still healing but is this is actually a serious problem that he won't admit. Could it get better by itself?

Jag Chana, MD, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

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.

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

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

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

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

Houtan Chaboki, MD · Answer

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

David A. Sherris, MD · Answer

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.

Did my rhinoplasty cause a deviated septum? (Photos)

Answers (5)