Hump After Nose Job

I would agree that the first issue to consider is sof t tissue swelling, since it sounds like the profile was appropriate right after the splint was removed.  That would take care of itself with time.  However I agree with one of the other surgeons who note that humps can regrow.  We have all seen the scenario.  My explanation would also include that the periosteum becomes active and thickened after trauma (which is one reason why broken noses have that hump on top).  Left unchecked, that periosteum can either remain thickened, calcify, or lay down additional bone.  in the end, we see fullness of the bridge that was not present before trauma or surgery.

You can remedy this with a simple office injection of kenalog.  In fact, the surgeon can feel the needle pop through this rind of inflammation and enter the space that is expanded, almost like the shell of an egg.  No additional surgery.  But it should be done soon, before the body matures in this full state.

The periosteum and muscle over the nasal bone swell after Rhinoplasty. This takes months to resolve and the skin feels spongy over the bridge. We recommend massage 2-3x/ day and occasionally re- taping for a month. The scar fade gels will help. Give it time! Dr. G.

A hump that recurs after rhinoplasty is most likely due to the formation of fibrous tissue at the area of a bony injury. This can be easily seen in anyone who has broken a collar bone and has a big lump where the bone is healing. I agree that an injection of steroid is appropriate in this circumstance to help the fullness disappear as quickly as possible. Nightly taping can also help. Ultimately, discuss this with your surgeon.

Andrew C. Campbell, M.D.

Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon