It’s been 6 months but it hasn’t gotten better - is the swelling normal? (photos)

Question

Hi, I had my septoplacty done 6 months ago. I can breath very well but my nose is still extremely swollen (Or maybe not). My nose used to be very thin before it got crooked. But now my nose is bigger than ever! I get comments on it 24/7. The doctors say it’s swelling. But swelling? For 6 months? And most of the swelling should have been gone til now, even if there still is swelling it’s probably not much. I’m very frustrated and need answers

Thomas Spalla, MD · Answer

I agree with you. There should be very little swelling at 6 months after a septoplasty. I don't want to sound rude, but are you sure that's all that was performed? Your swelling and change in appearance (I assume the pics are before/after) is unusual after a septoplasty alone.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and I understand your frustration. However, your doctors are likely correct - swelling after rhinoplasty can linger for up to one year and interfere with the final outcome of your new nose. If your surgeon believes you are progressing normally in your recovery, my advice would be to wait another six months until the nose is fully healed and see what it looks like then. If you are still unhappy with your results at that time, you could contact a revision rhinoplasty surgeon for a full assessment and treatment recommendations.

It’s been 6 months but it hasn’t gotten better - is the swelling normal? (photos)

Answers (2)