What can I expect after removing an infected Goretex implant? Will swelling on tip go away afterwards? (photo)

Question

Primary Rhinoplasty was on 12/9/13. Goretex on the bridge, ear cartilage added on the tip + alarplasty. Implant Removal will be on 3/10/14 due to infection. Tip is swollen now & I want to know if this is because of the infection & if this will be resolved after implant removal. Will I get a scar on my bridge? Doc wants to leave cartilage on the tip alone & only remove the implant. Will this result to an abnormal looking nose? Will I need another revision to make my nose look normal again?

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

I'm sorry you're having problems after  your rhinoplasty. Infection is the most common problem to occur with GoreTex implants, and rarely implant removal is necessary. I presume you had a failed trial of antibiotics, and your surgeon is removing your implant since the infection cannot be controlled. Cultures may be helpful.Based on what's going on, you may need to have the implant removed. When persistently infected implants are removed, healing is relatively quick, and your nasal swelling and much asymmetry may improve.Your bridge may be lower after you heal, but for now, you need to focus on controlling your infection. Would not worry about possible revision rhinoplasty now. Hope this is helpful for you.Dr. Joseph

Jamil Ahmad, MD · Answer

At this time, it is important that the infection is treated appropriately. If it has persisted despite antibiotics, then removal of the implant is required. Leaving the implant in place with an ongoing infection can lead to other problems such as scarring and can even affect the cartilages. It is difficult to predict what you will look like after implant is removed. You will likely have to wait a some time prior to considering revision surgery - even up to 1 year - to ensure that the skin and soft tissues as well as the scar tissue has had enough time to heal.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Why are you waiting to have the removal??? Sounds very unusual to me. It is obvious in the posted photo you have an infected implant that needs "immediate" removal/////

What can I expect after removing an infected Goretex implant? Will swelling on tip go away afterwards? (photo)

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What can I expect after removing an infected Goretex implant? Will swelling on tip go away afterwards? (photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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