What could be causing foul odor 6 months after rhinoplasty revision?

Question

I had (failed) revision rhinoplasty 6 months ago and had a smell almost straight away after. The smell is now so strong and gets worse if i move the nose eg wrinkling the nose or moving when washing my face. Recently its been super strong at night and even waking me up. Its a really really horrible, foul smell, particularly in one side. Had 2 courses of antibiotics and its still here. Im desperate for a solution.

Andac Aykan, MD · Answer

Hello, the most common causes might be retained suture material, exposed cartilage or graft, dead tissue, or a localized chronic infection or abscess inside the nose. These problems can worsen with movement, which fits what you’re experiencing.
This needs direct internal examination, ideally with nasal endoscopy, by an ENT or facial plastic surgeon. The solution is usually identifying and removing the source, not more antibiotics.
This is treatable, but it requires hands-on evaluation. Best regards.
Andaç Aykan, MD, Assoc. Prof.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Sometimes people can experience a bad smell in their nose after nasal surgery from inspisated mucus. Many people get relief from this by rinsing their noses out with nasal saline. Your surgeon or an otolaryngologist can confirm your diagnosis with nasal endoscopy. Thank you for your question. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

That odor could be coming from area inside the nose that haven’t healed well. Frequent use of saline nasal spray or nasal gavage should help. You should see your surgeon to see if there are any problem areas inside the nose that could be causing the odor

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. This smell can actually be very normal after surgery and often is not sure to infection. It can be due to mucosal turnover, dissolving sutures, or mucosa recovering exposed internal structures. Time usually eventually resolves this but it can last many months and up to one year. I recommend that you maintain close follow up with your qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

What could be causing foul odor 6 months after rhinoplasty revision?

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