Almost 6 months post rhinoplasty. Will my results smoothen and flatten out more? (photo)

Question

I'm almost 6 months PO, but I can already tell how much worse my nose looks. The new shape and curvature of my nose are less attractive and more wrong for my face; especially when smiling. I think the tip is too straight and narrow, and bridge is too rectangular and wide. Also, my columella is very droopy and round, giving the tip a "clover" look. The aesthetic lines of my nose are now very convex and less feminine. There may be supratip fullness. Will things smoothen/sharpen out?

Thomas Spalla, MD · Answer

I do note the changes that you've noticed yourself since undergoing rhinoplasty.My first question would be, "Why did you undergo rhinoplasty?" From what I see in your preoperative photo, your nose looked great. Were you having breathing issues? If so, how has that changed since surgery?
Regardless of indication, the nose continues to change for at least a year and sometimes even longer, so be patient right now and know that subtle changes will continue to occur with remodeling and some of the concerns you have now may not be present at a year after surgery.

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Hi @Vividity! The healing process can take about a year. If you are unhappy with the results after 1 year, I would consider a revision rhinoplasty.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

By 6 months after surgery, we can usually see significant progress in the right direction. Your photos may not show all of the concerns you enumerated. Consider obtaining a copy of your operative report, B&A photos, and get a second opinion from a reputable rhinoplasty specialist. Hope this helps. Dr Joseph

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

I am almost sure that your surgeon told you that it takes good 12 months and longer for rhinoplasty result to settle and mature. There is still scarring and swelling that affects your current result. You may try with night taping of the nose which may reduce swelling and help faster healing. Patience. Good luck.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

It takes around 1 year to be fully healed after rhinoplasty and for the swelling to go away to appreciate the final results.  That being said, I would recommend discussing your concerns with your surgeon.  They would know what was done at the time of your rhinoplasty and if you are on the expected course of healing.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I think your result is okay but the nose is too long with a hanging columella. Taking care of that is a very minor touch up. Otherwise I think you need to wait it out a year before full assessment

Arturo Munoz Meza, MD · Answer

in our experience, it won’t change too much. Anyway, it is mandatory to let the healing process to mature completely (usually 12 months after) to give a final opinion and do a revisional/secondary procedure to improve. Be patient, you are good looking already. Here we are for whatever you need. Best advice is to discuss results with your surgeon first and listen to his/her comments. Best regards

Jeffrey E. DeWeese, MD, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

The nose continues to remodel for at least a year following rhinoplasty, so you have not yet seen the final result. Further, any revision should be postponed until at least one year because the nose gets hyperemic in the healing phase and going back in surgically can be disateraous with excessive bleeding and scarring.

Almost 6 months post rhinoplasty. Will my results smoothen and flatten out more? (photo)

Answers (8)