Rhinoplasty 6 months post op - could this be swelling or cartilage stopping me from being able to breathe fully? (Photos)

Question

Hi I have noticed my left nostril has a muscle or something that is stopping me from being able to breathe fully wondering if it’s swelling or cartilage I can breathe but my nostril hole is small that I can take a deep breathe

Barry M. Weintraub, MD, FACS · Answer

I see the tissue of concern in the photos, but a physical exam would be necessary to determine the cause. Have you discussed your concerns with your surgeon? In my practice, my surgical fee includes every postoperative visit for a full year, which guarantees that any questions that my patients have can be dealt with in person, without any barricades preventing them from seeing me. I believe that surgery does not end when the splint is removed, but that a good surgeon should be there for patients indefinitely. It’s our responsibility and pleasure (at least in my case) to provide the most available and loyal care possible. So, that said, I would hope your surgeon’s door is open to you!

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hello! It's possible that there is cartilage causing fullness in the area or still swelling present intranasally. At 6 months, there's still time for improvement. Options would be steroid injection to the area. If no better, the cartilage graft or septum may need to be thinned to open the valve area. Trying a steroid spray such as Flonase for 1-2 months may help. Hope this is useful!

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
From your photos, I note a pink papule apparently projecting from the nasal septum (?), partially obstructing the left nostril. The mass is not well visualized due to overlying nasal vibrissae. An internal nasal examination is required. This could represent residual septal displacement, a granuloma, a nasal polyp, etc. 
Revisit your plastic surgeon for reevaluation and discussion.
Best wishes...

Rhinoplasty 6 months post op - could this be swelling or cartilage stopping me from being able to breathe fully? (Photos)

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Rhinoplasty 6 months post op - could this be swelling or cartilage stopping me from being able to breathe fully? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.