Nostril is painful, drips and has a cut. How can I fix this? (Photos)

Question

Had revision surgery years ago. Everything was fine at first but for years now my right nostril is always dripping and if often has a painful red cut on the tip of the nostril What may be the issue? Can it be fixed? Thank you.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Sometimes after rhinoplasty, or during allergy season, a runny nose can cause painful fissures in the vestibule of your nose similar to what you have demonstrated in your photos. For symptomatic relief, consider some over the counter hydrocortisone cream two to three times a day with a Q-tip.If this is not helpful, please consult with your surgeon or otolaryngologist. Hope this helps! Dr Joseph

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your query. The “cut” you have is very common and, if needed, you can have a very small revision  of the scar. Having secretions several years after your revision rhinoplasty is very unusual and you may need to see an ENT surgeon, in addition to your Plastic surgeon. A carful intra-nasal examination will be required and you can discuss all your concerns with them. All the best!

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

It is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist to determine the cause of your symptoms and the appropriate course of treatment.

However, based on the symptoms you described, it is possible that you have a condition called nasal vestibulitis, which is an inflammation of the lining of the nasal vestibule, the area just inside the nostril. This condition can be caused by various factors, including a bacterial or fungal infection, trauma to the area, or the use of certain nasal products.

If you have nasal vestibulitis, your doctor may recommend treatment with antibiotics, antifungal medications, or topical creams. In some cases, nasal vestibulitis may also require a procedure to remove any infected or damaged tissue.

It is also possible that your symptoms are related to the previous revision surgery. If the surgery altered the nasal structure or caused damage to the lining of the nostril, this could lead to chronic inflammation or infection.

Again, it is important to consult with a qualified medical professional who can evaluate your symptoms and provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Nostril is painful, drips and has a cut. How can I fix this? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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Nostril is painful, drips and has a cut. How can I fix this? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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