Is yellow crusting 7 months after rhinoplasty normal? (Photo)

Question

I had Septorhinoplasty 7 months ago and everything was healing well but in the last 2 months I been getting crusting that is yellow and sometimes with a weird smell. The smell comes and goes and the crusting is not a lot is just like cover sheets that forms over my skin inside my nose. I also have burning and discomfort after blowing my nose. My nose feel really stiff inside all the time. My surgeon checked me 2 weeks ago and he said everything is healing ok. Why do I keep getting this crust?

Christian L. Stallworth, MD · Answer

There are a number of reasons for nasal crusting.  In this case, two primary reasons might include - 1.  Nasal allergies - mucous production and subsequent drying and accumulation can occur in patients that have seasonal or annual nasal allergies.  Climate and environment can also contribute to chronic rhinitis in a similar way.  In patients that have had their nasal airway surgically opened to increase airflow, it is possible that you now have increased the exposure of your nasal lining to allergens and air quality that is leading to local inflammation.  For starters, use of nasal saline sprays or gels like Ocean or Ayr can help with this.2.  You could have a localized bacterial infection that needs topical and/or oral antibiotics.  The nasal vestibule is a primary location for staph bacteria growth.  To know for sure, the nasal vestibules would need to be cultured.I would recommend investigating both of these and any other options with your surgeon.  If your surgeon is unfamiliar with treating nasal breathing and inflammatory issues, you might seek a second opinion with an otolaryngologist (ENT).  In any case, it is unlikely that your crusting is to be blamed on your surgery. Best wishes!

W. Tracy Hankins, MD · Answer

Your symptoms are consistent with septal perforation.  I would return to see your surgeon and be sure an intranasal exam is performed.

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

Crusting of the nose is likely secondary to a septal perforation. Your photo seems to have scabbing over the septum which if removed will likely show a perforation.

Is yellow crusting 7 months after rhinoplasty normal? (Photo)

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Is yellow crusting 7 months after rhinoplasty normal? (Photo)

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