Exposed cartilage 7 weeks after rhinoplasty/septoplasty? Is this right?? (photo)

Question

I have been having an uncomfortable feeling in my left nostril. Like raw and tugging sensation in one spot when I smile, yawn or generally move my head around etc. I investigated it and saw what looks like an area of cartilage that isn't covered by skin. Could this be right? If so, what are my options to fix it?

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi AH,Sorry to hear about your adverse event.  You should immediately return to your nasal surgeon for evaluation.  If it is indeed cartilage then it would require excision with closure using the surrounding mucosal lining.  Our prayers are with you and your fellow Las Vegas residents, families and friends of those affected by the recent horrific events.  Good luck and be well.Dr. P

Jeffrey Joseph, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Although difficult to assess exactly what's going on, it appears to be the caudal septum.  Schedule an appointment with your doctor so he can do a thorough exam.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

The white linear structure between your columella and nostril margin may be the bottom of your nasal septum, and it may be covered by mucous membrane (skin). The best advice would be to visit your surgeon for an examination so you can see how to proceed. Keep us posted please! Dr Joseph

P. Daniel Ward, MD · Answer

Hi ahansen5,I would strongly encourage you to see your rhinoplasty surgeon to have the area evaluated. Based on the picture, I cannot tell what is going on, but think that it deserves an in person evaluation.Good luck!

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

I cannot tell from the photo if that is really cartilage. You should contact your surgeon and geet in to see someone. If the cartilage is actually exposed it has a chance of developing a long term infection.

Tanya Judge, MD · Answer

HiWhat your describing does sound like it should be looked at by your surgeon.  See her/him sooner rather than later.  Its hard to tell exactly what is going on based on the picture but your surgeon should be able to tell you after an examination.  Best of luck!

Jordan P. Sand, MD · Answer

Hi ahansen5 and thank you for your question.
Reviewing your photo, it is hard to tell if that area is exposed cartilage. It may be the edge of the medial crura or some scar. I would recommend contacting your surgeon's office and being evaluated. If there is a problem they can help develop a treatment plan for you.
Good luck!

Robert S. Schmidt, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. More likely it's a thin area of lining over some cartilage, but you should visit with your surgeon to be sure. Most of the time exposed areas will heal over given proper wound care. Good luck!

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

I cannot determine what your seeing in this picture but you should schedule an appointment with your surgeon as soon as reasonably possible. This may simple be pale scar tissue.

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