Facial damage due to Rhinoplasty?

Question

I am only 2 weeks post open Rhinoplasty so am just looking for reassurance. In what circumstances would someone get permanant nerve/muscle damage after surgery? I can barely smile and do not even feel close to being able to. I'm worried something went wrong and I'm stuck this way. I know I should ask my Surgeon but he is now not available till May (stupid I know). Any knowledge or previous stories on this subject is greatly appreciated. Thanks

Jamil Ahmad, MD · Answer

It is very rare to have nerve or muscle damage that is symptomatic following rhinoplasty. It is common for patients to feel that it is difficult for them to smile in the first few weeks following rhinoplasty. This is secondary to swelling in the nose and also the upper lip as well as temporary weakness of muscles that connect the nose to the upper lip. In some instances, these muscles are released from the nose to correction a tip that plunged while smiling or that caused shortening of the upper lip. After a month or so, these muscle start to become stronger again and as swelling resolves, it becomes easier to smile.

Facial damage due to Rhinoplasty?

Answers (1)