7 days post op Rhino septoplasty, I can't taste or smell anything. My surgeon says it's normal, Is it really?

Question

Had a rhino septoplasty a week ago and I got the packing removed today but o still can't taste or smell anything event though I can breath from my nose. Please help is this normal or is it possible that I have lost my smell and taste senses during the surgery?

Raghu Athre, MD · Answer

It is very normal to not have taste/smell postoperatively for up to 6 weeks.  The swelling on the inside of your nose impedes air flow which impedes smell and taste.  This is very similar to having a cold, where you cannot smell and taste.It will improve.  :)

Mark Petroff, MD · Answer

The swelling likely to be causing you to not have normal taste and smell senses.  The majority of our ability to taste comes from our ability to smell. Your swelling/congestion is inhibiting this right now but this will recover fully in time. Try to continue to be patient as you continue to heal. I wish you a speedy recovery!Mark Petroff, MD

Shahram Shahidi, BSc, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

This is common at this
early stage. Your sense of smell and taste can often take many weeks to return.

7 days post op Rhino septoplasty, I can't taste or smell anything. My surgeon says it's normal, Is it really?

Answers (3)

More Rhinoplasty Questions

7 days post op Rhino septoplasty, I can't taste or smell anything. My surgeon says it's normal, Is it really?

Answers (3)

More Rhinoplasty Questions

Is it possible to get the center of my nose similar to Lauren London with my thick nose tip?

I just noticed a yellowish white blob forming on the inside of my nose. Is this a sign of infection? (Photo)

I have a cold. I am sneezing, coughing and have congestion. Should I postpone surgery?