How Long Do Fracture Lines Remain Noticeable After Rhinoplasty?

Question

I had rhinoplasty about 3 weeks ago which involved narrowing the nasal bones as well as removing a small hump. I have a narrow dent like spot on just one side of my nose a little lower than my eye. I am assuming it is the fracture line that is present from where my bone was broken. I was wondering if it is normal for it to dent in slightly after almost a month. As a visual reference, to someone else it would most likely appear like a tiny indented scar.

Howard Webster, MBBS (Hons), FRACS · Answer

Hi there,
It's very possible that what you describe might actually be a little indented scar as you suspect and not the actual osteotomy itself.  Many rhinoplasty surgeons use a 2mm osteotome to perform the osteotomy via a tiny stab incision right around where you describe. This leaves a tiny usually invisible scar, but it can be lumpy or tethered for a time.  Check with your surgeon whether you had this technique used, as if you did, then you'll find the spot will resolve faster if you massage it regularly and maybe place a tiny square of silicon gel over it at night.
If this technique was used, its a perfectly good one and widely used. 

Good luck.

Amy T. Bandy, DO, FACS · Answer

Marie, I agree with the previous posts, however, if you see the fracture line this early in your recovery, it is unlikely that it will go away completely, as you have more swelling now than you will in 6-12 months.  The good news is, dermal fillers can camoflage this quite nicely, if need be.  Good luck!

John M. Hilinski, MD · Answer

Marie, it is not uncommon to see a contour abnormality in this area following osteotomies (breaking of the nasal bone). Three weeks out is somewhat early in the healing process to make any solid judgements regarding the area. These type of contour issues can persist in some cases for months following cosmetic nose reshaping. I would be patient and confirm this finding with your rhinoplasty surgeon. Happy healing.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

A dent may be tethering of the skin to the fracture site as osteotomies can be donw from outside.  Also the fracture lines usually are not visible but usually heal as the bone heals.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

It is possible to feel the fracture lines along the side of the nose after rhinoplasty, and that may persist, however the fracture cannot be seen. If you have a dent, let your surgeon take a look.
	Best of luck, peterejohnsonmd.com

How Long Do Fracture Lines Remain Noticeable After Rhinoplasty?

Answers (7)

Answer: Dent/fracture line visibility by nose

Answer: Dent/fracture line visibility by nose

Answer: Fracture lines can be felt but not seen after rhinoplasty

Answer: Fracture lines can be felt but not seen after rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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How Long Do Fracture Lines Remain Noticeable After Rhinoplasty?

Answers (7)

Answer: Dent/fracture line visibility by nose

Answer: Dent/fracture line visibility by nose

Answer: Fracture lines can be felt but not seen after rhinoplasty

Answer: Fracture lines can be felt but not seen after rhinoplasty

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.