5.5 months after rhinoplasty, breathing problems from one nostril - Is it possible that this is swelling?

Question

Hello, I’m almost 6 months post-open rhino and there’s still one nostril that’s almost constantly blocked. It has opened sometimes (not as strongly as the other) but really rarely and only for like 5 minutes and then it gets blocked. Breathing through the other nostril is fine though. Looking at it from the inside, I can still see the septum a bit protruding (although a bit less than before). I still sleep with my mouth open at night. Is it possible that it is still swollen?

Selcuk Inanli, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question. As far as I can understand from your question, your nose can be still swollen and it you might need to talk with your surgeon about it. It would be more convenient to decide with face-to-face consultation. Best Regards!

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If your blocked side breathes better after using a topical decongestant like oxymetazoline, you may have an issue with an enlarged turbinate which is an easy repair. If you have a functional blockage. You would need an examination to determine the extent and feasibility of repair. Hope this helps. Dr Joseph

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

An intranasal exam would be needed to determine the point of obstruction. It is likely that you have enlarged turbinates and a simple steroid injection could help it

5.5 months after rhinoplasty, breathing problems from one nostril - Is it possible that this is swelling?

Answers (3)