3 weeks post rhinoplasty and still can't breathe?

Question

I had a rhinoplasty/septoplasty/balloonplasty 3 weeks ago and I still cannot breathe through my nose. I have to breathe entirely through my mouth. Is this normal? How long should this last?

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for this interesting question.Swelling time after a rhinoplasty depends of the surgery complexity (Ex.: Rhinoplasty with nasal controled nasal bones fracture (osteotomy) will have greater inflammation than one in which only the nasal tip treatment).But, generally the nasal swelling Post-op It can last from two weeks to two months.To reduce this swelling, I recommend you perform delicates daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the face (around the nose) avoid sun exposure, and take pain/inflamation pills, as your surgeron precribe you.Kind regards, Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question, dml71992. While it is typical to experience swelling and sometimes slight differences in nostril airway, I suggest you consult with your board certified facial plastic surgeon if you cannot breathe at all through your nose. Best wishes,

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  It is very normal to be swollen at three weeks postoperative. There is likely dried blood deep inside your nose and swelling.  I recommend that you return to see your surgeon, as he/she will have a good idea of what to expect in regards to your specific progress, since they can evaluate you in relation to your preoperative appearance.Best wishes and good luckRichard G. Reish, M.D.Harvard-trained Plastic Surgeon

Michelle R. Yagoda, MD · Answer

Dear dml71992,It is completely normal to have nasal congestion for at least 3 weeks after cosmetic and functional nasal surgery.  The nose will make crusts (like scabs) and it takes 3-6 weeks for it heal completely.  I have patients return for weekly cleaning to remove these crusts.  This enables the nose to heal faster without any increased risk of infection or scar formation.  Perhaps your doctor can do this? Hope this helps!Dr. Michelle Yagoda

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Without knowing exactly what was done for you it is hard to say. Commonly, patients get congestion from swelling. It can take several weeks for this to resolve. You should review this with your surgeon too.

Marissa Tenenbaum, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your rhinoplasty! It sounds like your surgery was a functional septorhinoplasty and edema or swelling after surgery is very common. This swelling can take up to a year to resolve. Sometimes using saline nasal spray can help decongest the nose. If you have seasonal allergies, you may need to resume your treatment for this. It is important to maintain follow up with your board certified plastic surgeon so that she/he can examine you and see what the cause and treatment is. Best of luck, MMT

Jawed Tahery, FRCS · Answer

Hi,The blockage can lasts for good 6 weeks but you better consult your surgeon to exclude any remote possibility of septal haematoma or adhesions!In the interim it is advisable to continue with regular nasal dushes to get rid of nasal crusting!!Best wishesJ Tahery ChesterUK

3 weeks post rhinoplasty and still can't breathe?

Answers (7)

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