Will my hanging columella go down as my swelling decreases?

Question

I am 6 weeks post op and loving my nose but I have a question I haven't been able to discuss with my doctor. I know my tip is still very swollen and will go down with time but I also still have what I consider to be a hanging columella. When I feel it is it very hard and was something I'm pretty sure my surgeon wanted to fix. I may be overthinking it since it is not fully healed but I was wondering if that too will shrink with time like the rest of the tip? Thank you :)

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

It likely will improve with time but without knowing more about your surgery, seeing photos or examining your nose it is impossible to say how much this will improve. Your surgeon should be able to reassure you about the healing process. In the worst case scenario refining the columella is typically a short procedure that can be performed in the office. However, you should allow your nose to heal at least 3-6 months before considering this option. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

John Layke, DO, FACS · Answer

Without photos, my advice may be limited; however, your nose will continue to change over the next several weeks to months.  If it feels very hard, it may be due to one of two things: a cartilage graft, or residual swelling.  Your surgeon will be able to tell you what to expect and will be happy to address your concerns.  Otherwise, post photos so I can offer specific advice.  Best wishes!

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello Nosienorm,As you know after rhinoplasty, there can be a fair amount of swelling.  This may be related to what you are seeing as the swelling usually pushes the tip of the nose up but this comes down with time.  Another possibility is that the ala are retracting upwards causing more of the columella to show from an improperaly placed graft or from over correction of a bulbous tip.  However, if you are feeling something firm there this could represent a graft that was placed in the columella.  Without knowing more about the surgery this is difficult to determine if it will improve.  The best option is to ask your surgeon what was performed as this can give a better appreciation if this is just swelling, which will improve, or a graft in the columella, which will likely stay in that spot but the appearance may improve as the tip swelling decreases.  I hope this helps and good luck.

Will my hanging columella go down as my swelling decreases?

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Will my hanging columella go down as my swelling decreases?

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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.