I had a septorhinoplasty and alar base reduction about a month and a half ago. Did it change my smile permanently? (Photos)

Question

My gums used to show when I would smile and now they don't and my smile looks very forced. Is this permanent and is there a way to fix this? I don't feel comfortable smiling with my teeth anymore. The alar base reduction was without my consent or knowledge. Could the alar base reduction be to blame? I also feel pain in the middle of my bridge when I smile with my teeth.

Lucas Bryant, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Please address the alar base reduction and any consent concerns with your surgeon. Alar base reduction would not change your smile. You are still quite early in the healing process. It is very common for your upper lip (and thus your smile) to change over the first few months of healing. This is due to a variety of reasons including increased swelling in the area. Without having done your surgery, I can only say that what you notice is not uncommon and typically resolves. Warm regards.

Jan Zemplenyi, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You need to give your body more time to heal as you are still very early on in the healing process. Your smile should go back to normal once most of the swelling has subsided.Typically, the initial swelling after nose surgery subsides within two to three weeks.  However, residual swelling, especially in the tip of the nose, can take about a year to resolve as the contour refines. Swelling can also vary through the day, being more prominent in the morning. Try and be patient as you continue to heal and follow up with your surgeon if your concerns persist.

I had a septorhinoplasty and alar base reduction about a month and a half ago. Did it change my smile permanently? (Photos)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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I had a septorhinoplasty and alar base reduction about a month and a half ago. Did it change my smile permanently? (Photos)

Answers (2)

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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.