Is there a way to prevent a bump from coming back after rhinoplasty?

Question

It seems pretty crazy to me that people spend so much money to eradicate a bump on their nose only for it to come back. Is it common for bumps to come back after nose jobs? How is it prevented? Does the shape of a nose job often change for the worst as the swelling goes through changes?

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Dear gigiandcamiThanks for the question. It’s very rare to see removed hump comeback but for some cases still it’s possible to see %10-12 remove hump growing back. I advice to consult your doctor. I wish you all the best.

Scott Trimas, MD · Answer

You are correct in that a residual bump may recur after a rhinoplasty procedure and this occurs approximately 10 to 15% of the time. That being said, there are some measures you can take to prevent recurrence such as massage, taping, etc. Certain skin types are more likely and this is also more likely in younger women. However, even if it comes back it should not be as large as the previous bump or nasal hump.

Thomas J. Walker, MD, FACS · Answer

Dorsal humps do not come back after adequate surgery. What happens in some cases is that the postoperative swelling camouflages a residual dorsal hump (or other irregularity) and as the swelling completely subsides (which takes up to a year), the slightest irregularities will become visible especially in patients with thin skin. This is the reason why long-term follow-up is important as minor in-office intervention can sometimes prevent or address such a problem. Best wishes!

Philip K. Robb Jr., MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question!If by "bump" you're referring to the dorsal "hump" that people often have removed, this does not return after surgery. Of course there is post surgical swelling that occurs after surgery but most of my patients can tell the hump is gone the day after surgery by just looking at the splint. I would recommend returning to your surgeon if you still have the hump after surgery but just know that swelling can take 9-12months to completely go away. Hope this helps and God Bless!Dr. Robb

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The dorsal hump is composed of both bone and cartilage, where they junction together is a growth center for the nose.  Bone and cartilage is living tissue in response to surgery by laying down additional cells.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

In most cases, when I rhinoplasty is performed, a bump can be taken down successfully. Sometimes a residual bump can be left or the bone can heal with scar tissue that leaves a bump.