Wasn't happy with my rhinoplasty as soon as the cast came off, 3 weeks down the line still not satisfied. Any suggestions?

Thank you for your question.  Your question is one that we sometimes hear, and I know that it is frustrating to not be pleased with your results (at this point).  However, at 3 weeks post-op you still have a significant amount of swelling.  Many complaints that we hear, this soon from surgery, is that the profile is still not satisfactory, the nasal tip is too rotated, and sometimes the tip can deviate to one side versus another.  These three irregularities can all be caused from swelling alone.  With time, you will see the nose change and settle into its final shape and configuration.My suggestion is to first, discuss your concerns with your surgeon.  Once you have done that, I would wait until all swelling goes away.  Realistically this takes at least 6 months, and up to a year.  I hope this gives you some reassurance! -David Gilpin

The most important point is that you are still so early in the healing process. In general, the shape of the nose when the cast comes off is similar to the final result. Over the first year of healing, as swelling subsides, the refinement of the nose becomes apparent. However, swelling can be asymmetric and sometimes swelling can show up over an area of the bridge that can be concerning during the early healing period. Keep in close contact with your surgeon. You should notice your swelling resolve, appearance of the nose improve over time. If you're unhappy with the result at one year you might be a candidate for revision. However, you still have alot of healing to do between now and then. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Hi thank you for your question - we always love it when things look perfect right from the get-go but that's not always the case - but the good news is that this is normally temporary, as there is significant swelling early in the healing process; additionally the skin has a bit of 'memory' and the swelling exaggerates this I hope this helps - hang in there!

 I'm sorry that you are in distress and thanks for your question.  I have performed Rhinoplsty and Revision Rhinoplasty for over 25 years.  My advice is to take a deep breath and allow yourself time to hear and to evaluate the result from your Rhinoplasty.  Three weeks is way too soon to make any decision on the outcome, especially with an Open Rhinoplasty and if your nose is still very swollen as you describe.  You should bring this up with your Rhinoplasty Surgeon who can explain logically what was done and your expected post-op course.  Hope this helps

Dear Madisonx, In my practice i believe that most patients splint removal shows a good idea of the shape of their nose however not necessarily the size. Swelling will dissipate over the coming months and then you will better determine your post operative results. See your surgeon for follow up care and discuss your concerns. 

I have two suggestions. It is impossible for you to evaluate your nose 3 weeks after surgery; be patient. Second, discuss your concerns with your surgeon.