Do rhinoplasties and deviated septums cause nasal fungus infections? (Photo)

Question

An open rhinoplasty was performed on just my tip (no bone broken) back in 2005. One plastic surgeon told me my septum is deviated. The past few years I've noticed a foul-smelling (dirty socks) smell running from my nose. One plastic surgeon says this is normal with rhino patients. Is this normal? Could this be a fungus infection? Would this be a difficult revision surgery to straighten and reduce my collumella? Thanks you.

Douglas J. Mackenzie, MD · Answer

No, it's not normal to have a foul smell after rhinoplasty.  You should probably be evaluated by an otolaryngologist first to make sure you don't have any issues like sinus problems causing the foul smell.  A revision rhinoplasty should be done by a surgeon comfortable and experienced doing revision rhinoplasties.  More photos would be helpful, but the one you included suggests that your tip cartilages are over-resected and your alae are retracted.  You will likely need an open rhinoplasty with cartilage grafting.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

A foul smell 10 years after rhinoplasty surgery is not normal. You need to consult with an ENT or rhinoplasty surgeon before considering a revision.

Do rhinoplasties and deviated septums cause nasal fungus infections? (Photo)

Answers (2)