1 week post-op septoplasty and turbinate reduction - can't breathe.

Question

I had septoplasty and turbinate reduction 8 days ago and I have been taking medicines prescribed by the doctor but I can't breathe at all from my nose and it seems no improvement at all in 8 days. I have been breathing through my mouth for 8 days now.. is it normal?? However I notice when I walk my nostrils open slightly for a second or two but then again completely gets blocked

Deepak Raj Dugar, MD · Answer

Hello,It is very hard to say that something is wrong because you are so early in the healing process. It usually takes 1-3 years for the swelling to fully go down after a rhinoplasty. The tip takes the longest time to heal and mold to the new framework because it is the thickest skin of the nose. The skin over the profile is thinner than the skin over the tip. Patience is required during this healing phase. If you still cannot breathe in a couple weeks, notify your board certified facial plastic surgeon.All the best, Deepak Dugar, MDScarless Rhinoplasty ExpertBeverly Hills, CA 90210

Matthew Bridges, MD, FACS · Answer

Have you not followed up with your surgeon since surgery?  If you are having pain along with the feeling of obstruction, then you could have a septal hematoma.  This is an emergency and needs to be dealt with immediately.  Otherwise, swelling and crusting of blood and mucus in the nose typically causes stuffiness for 1-2 weeks after surgery.  If you have splints (i hope you haven't had to have splints for 8 days), they could be clogged.  You should follow up with your surgeon to have an examination.

Robert H. Woods, MD · Answer

The stock answer is that it is swollen at this stage and it is too soon to make any judgements. That said, if you could not breath amazingly well right after the splints were removed there could be a problem looming. You still have to wait until all the swelling is out before the smoke clears enough to be able to tell what the problem is. There is nothing to do at this time. Taking medications of sprays may provide temporary relief, but they will slow down the ultimate healing process.

Laxmeesh Mike Nayak, MD · Answer

It is very common to be very stuffy for 2-3 weeks after rhinoplaslty, then moderately stuffy for an additional 2-3 months. These conditions are caused by internal nasal swelling slowly subsiding.In rare cases, a septal hematoma can cause prolonged or extreme stuffiness in the early period; you surgeon likely checked for this at your spint removal visit.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is likely due to swelling. You have to give it time to settle down.  Sometimes it is also mucous. Speak with your surgeon about post-op care.

1 week post-op septoplasty and turbinate reduction - can't breathe.

Answers (9)

Answer: Not able to breathe 1 week after septorhinoplasty

Answer: Not able to breathe 1 week after septorhinoplasty

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling

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1 week post-op septoplasty and turbinate reduction - can't breathe.

Answers (9)

Answer: Not able to breathe 1 week after septorhinoplasty

Answer: Not able to breathe 1 week after septorhinoplasty

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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