Nerve issue after rhinoplasty - anyone have any ideas what this could be?

Question

I had a major rhinoplasty in April of 2022. In August of 2023 I had a “minor” revision because I was still having breathing issues on my left side. My surgeon felt the nasal cavity on my left side was too small and that was what was causing the breathing issue. He enlarged it using a bone saw. Every minute since that day I have had pain in my lower septum radiating to my front teeth. I have had my teeth checked extensively several times and they are fine. Anyone have an ideas. I need relief.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Chronic nasal pain that radiates into the teeth after rhinoplasty surgery is unusual. If your surgeon can pinpoint the area of pain inside your nose, perhaps a steroid injection in the painful spot may be helpful. I trial of lidocaine may be considered also. I hope this helps, and I wish you well moving forward. Sincerely, Dr. Joseph

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I am sorry to hear about your persistent difficulties.

The concerns you are describing seem to be related to irritation of the nerves shared between the anterior nasal spine, where you had the intervention, and the front upper teeth. This type of issue can occur when nerve pathways in the area become hypersensitive or irritated following surgery or trauma.

The problem you are experiencing falls under the specialisation of chronic pain specialists. I would recommend consulting with one of these specialists to better understand the nature and characteristics of the pain you are experiencing. They can provide a thorough evaluation and help determine the most appropriate methods for treatment.

It is important to note that chronic pain does not necessarily indicate ongoing inflammation or damage to the nerves. Instead, it often represents a lingering issue in how sensation is processed or perceived from the affected region. With proper assessment and management, there are various options available to help address this type of pain.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Most like your Nasopalatine nerve was injured during the procedure.
Depending on the type of injury determines the degree of recovery and how long this will take.
If it’s been two years, then you may not get much more improvement at this point.
I suggest you consult with an oral surgeon or ENT surgeon.
Best,
Mats Hagström MD

Nerve issue after rhinoplasty - anyone have any ideas what this could be?

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Nerve issue after rhinoplasty - anyone have any ideas what this could be?

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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