Lumps in my nostrils post-rhinoplasty. Is this normal?

Question

I am 1 month post op after rhinoplasty I am worried I have lots of humpy skin or cartilage(not sure what to call it) inside my nostrils is this normal?

Barbara L. Persons, MD, FACS · Answer

The first month after rhinoplasty is a difficult one for patients, and what you are describing is a fairly common complaint. If you do indeed have a problem, it is far too early to tell. To be blunt: there is a lot of goo, scabbing, and gunk going on there. Likely, it's normal. Most surgeons use a suture that absorbs slowly, and we ask that you don't pick, blow, or manipulate. Ultimately, you will have to see your plastic surgeon. She or he will examine you and take a close look. My personal advice is to try not to focus too hard on the healing process--your final results can't be appreciated quite yet. It's also important that you don't touch, pull or bother at your nose. What you are experiencing sounds normal, and your surgeon will confirm it for you.Follow their instructions, try not to let this recovery become stressful, and be patient for good results.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

What you are describing are the flaps of skin inside the nostrils created by the intranasal rim incisions. If these incisions are not sutured accurately (or at all--some surgeons leave these open to allow any bleeding under the skin a way to escape) drainage of blood can push the edge away from its opposite side, causing an offset which can be felt as a nodule as it heals.I prefer accurate hemostasis under direct vision (open rhinoplasty) and accurate dissolving suture closure of these rim incisions. This avoids your concern in virtually all cases.As your incisions heal, they will contract and the lumps you describe will reduce. If they persist, ask your surgeon about a steroid injection to help them soften and flatten. This should have no effect on your final result except for the intranasal rim scars themselves. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

I suspect from your description that the lumps might just be where some of the stitches were place. As long as the outside looks ok and you're not having too much difficlty with breathing I think you are fine. If you are more worried you should give your surgeon a call or email.

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Dear newlook0914,It is most probably healing tissue (swelling) that will resolveI would bring it up to your surgeon for an examinationBest,Nima Shemirani

Inessa Fishman, MD · Answer

Swelling after nasal surgery appears both on the outside and inside of the nose.  At one month, swelling and a bit of forming scar tissue are likely responsible for lumps and bumps in the nose, either at the sites of intranasal incisions or underneath nasal grafts.  If crusting in the nose is an issue, use saline nasal spray to keep things moist.  Follow your surgeon's instruction, and keep to the recommended follow-up schedule; also keep in mind that surgical swelling takes months to resolve.  Good luck!

David Reinstadler, MD · Answer

At one month, there is still a lot of swelling present in your nose. If you imaging all the swelling visible on the outside, the same amount is on the inside. This can present as irregularities within the nostrils, or as severe nasal congestion. The swelling will subside but it is important to continue the dialogue with your surgeon as they will be able to talk you through all the stages of healing. It will still take a few months for things to calm down. Best of luck

Michael Sullivan, MD (retired) · Answer

Early on following Rhinoplasty surgery there may be some unusual bumps. These will usually soften with continued healing. I always ask my patients to contact me with any post-operative questions. When in doubt. contact your surgeon's office. Best wishes!

Lumps in my nostrils post-rhinoplasty. Is this normal?

Answers (7)

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