Is this an infection 7 months post rhinoplasty? (photo)

Question

It started out like a redness on the tip of the nose, and grown big and one night, pus started oozing out. I thought it was a pimple and let it be. The 2nd night it was still the same, oozing out pus after i washed my face. I had a gore tex implant 7 months back. When i sent the photo to my surgeon, he was away on holiday but he replied that it is an infection and required removal. I was floored and worried. Does it look like an infection that requires removal? I didnt have fever/any ache.

Callum Faris, MD · Answer

Unfortunately this looks like an extruding implant. If this is the case it will not settle. Antibiotics can help but if it is an extruding implant the implant must be removed urgently. Delays may cause more scaring to your nasal tip. You should see your surgeon urgently. Wishing you well.

Jeffrey T. Steitz, MD · Answer

Typically this problem results from the early signs of an extruding implant.  It is often seen with L-shaped silicone implants that are creating inflammation of the nasal tip skin.  In general this needs to be managed quickly to save the overlying skin with implant removal but it depends on what, if anything, was implanted in the first place.  I would recommend seeing someone very quickly.  Best of luck!

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Nasal implants like GoreTex and silicone may extrude or become infected, especially when they are placed in the nasal tip area - less likely when used exclusively for nasal bridge raising. In our experience, implants may need removal when they get infected. Oral and topical antibiotics with wound care prescribed by your surgeon may be attempted to settle things down and prevent spread of infection. Since this is involving the tip of your nose, please seek medical care expeditiously - it is unlikely to be a pimple. Wishing you well. Dr Joseph

Greg Bran, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for reaching out. Anytime there is pus involved, you do have an infection that needs to be taken seriously, in particular after a rhinoplasty. GoreTex implants can get infected, you should try to see your surgeon or another colleague his practice might suggest to you asap. I am sorry for this unfortunate turn of events. Best of wishes!
Greg Bran MD PhD
Double board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon 
Member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery
Member of the European Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

Soon Woo Choi, MD · Answer

Hello from View Plastic Surgery in Korea.
You don't get a fever from infection. Please go visit your surgeon for an implant removal as soon as possible. If it gets worse, the surgery will get even bigger.
Regards,

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Is this an infection 7 months post rhinoplasty? (photo)

Answers (5)

RHINOPLASTY PROVIDERS NEAR YOU