Bump on nose 1 year after rhinoplasty soon after it got hit - permanent? (Photo)

Question

I had a Rhino one year and 3 months ago and ,although my tip is still quite swollen, the rest of my nose seems to have healed pretty well. About two months ago, I was at the Supermarket and hit my nose with a refrigerator door while opening it. Quite hard. My nose was quite sore throughout the day and red, and now more than two months later I have a pretty big bump on its side. Wondering if it could still be swelling or something more permanent? Should I be worried?

Oakley Smith, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Hello, If the trauma was strong, it might have caused a fracture in the bridge of your nose. It is better to see a rhinoplasty surgeon who can examine you properly and see what options are available for you.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

The best way to answer this question is with an examination. If your bump is hard like bone, it may not diminish 3 months after trauma. If it feels soft and dissipates while pressing on it, swelling may still be present. Consider consulting with your rhinoplasty specialist about what to do moving forward. Good luck! Dr Joseph

Joseph Shvidler, MD · Answer

You may have re-traumatized the cartilages and bone. Your body may form reactive tissue in response to repeated injury and this may need to be addressed with additional procedures. You may want to wait a while longer to decide whether you want to pursue a revision.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Based on the 1 oblique viewed photo you need revision surgery on the trauma induced hump. As for tip not enough phtos views to determine if you need tip revision. Best to virtual consult with... Fees from $6,000-$18,000...

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
From your photograph, there does appear to be a "bump" on the nasal bridge. 
As you already know (you've been there!), it takes 12-18 months for a rhinoplasty to heal and for all swelling to subside. Following rhinoplasty, the nasal bones heal by fibrous union rather than bony union, making your nose more susceptible to re-injury. 
There is no way to determine the nature of the bump at this time. The swelling of your recent injury must be allowed to subside. If a deformity persists beyond 3-4 months and is not showing signs of resolution, revisit your plastic surgeon for evaluation and discussion.
Best wishes...

Bump on nose 1 year after rhinoplasty soon after it got hit - permanent? (Photo)

Answers (5)