Is this normal 10 months post-op? Uneven nostrils & cartilage (Photo)

Question

Hello I had my surgery in turkey last August 2022. Now I have uneven nostrils. I feel a cartilage coming out as well. I have some blood inside still and I still have boogers that bother me. My surgeon says all this is normal however, I feel more uncomfortable with my nose especially when looking from below or in photos. Please help me understand if this is normal?

Stephen J. Pincus, MD · Answer

Post-operative asymmetries can be due to an asymmetry that existed prior to the surgery, but wasn't recognized, or inexact excisions between the two sides. Most patient don't look at their nose very critically before the surgery, but get quite fixated afterwards! You should ask to review the pre-op photos with the surgeon to see if their were any pre-existing asymmetries prior to the surgery. Though swelling is known to cause possible early post-op asymmetries, it would be unusual after a year. At this point, you should see several revision rhinoplasty surgeons to get their thoughts on how "normal" this all is. Armed with these other opinions, you should contact your original surgeon and discuss what bothers you and what options you have.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. While the initial swelling subsides within a few weeks after surgery, it may take up to a year for your new nasal contour to fully refine. That said, it seems abnormal to encounter bleeding or the feeling of cartilage coming out at 10 months post-op. You need a proper examination and diagnosis.
 
I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with a reputable board-certified facial plastic surgeon with expertise in revision rhinoplasty. They will be able to assess your nose and determine the best course of action to achieve the best possible outcome.

Man Koon Suh, MD · Answer

Based on photo, the cause of nostril asymmetry seems to be due to columella and tip deviation. Now that enough time has passed since the surgery, this condition seems difficult to see as a normal recovery process. Correction of columella and tip deviation can improve nostril asymmetry. There are various causes of columella and tip deviation, but in many cases, deviation of the caudal septum can cause tip and columella deviation, so a precise check (nasal exam, endoscopy or CT) is absolutely necessary.
Much improvement can be expected by revisional surgery.

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. You had surgery nearly a year ago, and the internal lining of your nose should be healed by now. I wouldn't expect any of the problems you mentioned (bleeding, mucus crusting, asymmetry, 'cartilage coming out') to resolve over time without some intervention and guidance. While giving the benefit of the doubt to your surgeon who may be trying to provide reassurance, I don't consider any of this 'normal' 10 months after rhinoplasty surgery. There may be some straightforward remedies to help the situation, or at least a detailed examination to provide diagnoses. The simple answer here is to follow-up with him/her in person, or see a facial plastic surgeon who can provide the guidance that you need. 
Best,Dr. Tower

Is this normal 10 months post-op? Uneven nostrils & cartilage (Photo)

Answers (4)

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