Sun bathed three months after rhinoplasty, will this cause permanent swelling?

Question

Three months after my rhinoplasty i began tanning, once or twice i forgot sunscreen but after that i have always worn sunscreen (70 SPF) and sometimes a hat or towel to cover my face. I haven't gotten a sunburn on my nose, and I only went out for an hour or two each time, but i am concerned because it has been direct sunlight and am paranoid that it is swelling more. Is it possible that the sun/heat would cause the swelling to become permanent or become scar tissue?

Samuel Lin, MD, FACS · Answer

Everyone's skin is different and there are certain skin conditions that may be more sensitive to sun; I would check with your surgeon and a dermatologist to be sure, however in the majority of cases at 3 months a significant amount of swelling has decreased..

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

You are still early in your recovery period and the nose is expected to be quite swollen at this point. The majority of the swelling will resolve in 3-6 months, and will continue to resolve as your nose heals for up to 1-2 years.

Jerold Olson, MD · Answer

Hello,For the first few months after rhinoplasty any activity that causes swelling of the nose will be  more pronounced than before surgery. This can include sun exposure.  Depending on time of day an hour or two of sun exposure can be significant. It is unlikely that you caused any long-term problems with your nose. Check in with your surgeon. Good luck.JO

Michael J. Yaremchuk, MD (license resigned) · Answer

While skin can vary in thickness and pigment response to sunlight, sun exposure is unlikely to contribute additional swelling or scar formation after a rhinoplasty procedure. Depending on the person, swelling will settle in 3-6 months for most patients, and up to 1 year to fully resolve in others. If you have particularly sensitive skin or have other concerns about your procedure, it is worthwhile seeing your Surgeon and/or Dermatologist.

Sun bathed three months after rhinoplasty, will this cause permanent swelling?

Answers (4)