Can an Inverted V Worsen Even More? to the Point of Complete Collapse and Become Very Noticeable to Others?

Question

I am two years post a small revision. And i can start to notice a line going across my nose, and can feel the cartilage running down the side of my nose. It has been two years and now i am depressed to the point where i am missing out university because i am fearing the fact that my nose will look worst and worst and i will have to go through another operation. I want this to be over. Others can not notice at this point. Please help as i am totally depressed by this. Should my swelling be gone by now

Thomas A. Lamperti, MD · Answer

After two years you may not notice much worsening of your valve collapse. It is possible to repair if the narrowing is problemmatic but that is up to you.

	Spreader grafts can be used to fix an inverted-V deformity. You can read more about spreader graft surgery at my web reference link below.

Steven J. Pearlman, MD, FACS · Answer

Inverted V deformity is from loss of support of the middle third of the nose called the internal nasal valve or middle vault. Sometimes it looks better after revision surgery for a year or so because of swelling. But if its there after 2 years is is unlikely to go away. On another note, is is unlikely to get much worse. THe idea of more surgery is not necessarily a happy one, but this is treatable.

John M. Hilinski, MD · Answer

At 2 years out, it is likely that all the swelling has settled. If you provide a high quality photograph of your nose and face it would help in providing you with a more accurate assessment.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

If you are concerned about the inverted V deformity and possible collapse, you should really visit your last surgeon or find a new one. Pictures would be helpful to assess your concerns. There really should not be any changes at 2 years. Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

William Portuese, MD · Answer

An inverted V deformity will not getting better 2 years after a rhinoplasty. The inverted V deformity is best treated with a combination of bilateral spreader grafts and sometimes osteotomies. This is usually as straightforward revision rhinoplasty repair performed as an outpatient procedure.

Can an Inverted V Worsen Even More? to the Point of Complete Collapse and Become Very Noticeable to Others?

Answers (8)