Smell from nose 4 weeks post-rhinoplasty - but no other symptoms?

Question

I'm four weeks post op. I've been rinsing my nose twice every day with salt water (8 oz water and teaspoon salt, though I realized tonight I've been deviating with too much water) and then cleaning with hydrogen peroxide and applying Polysporin ointment. I also have dissolvable sutures in my nose that my doctor told me would go away over the course of 3 months. But I apparently have a strange odor that others have pointed out. No swelling, no redness, no pain, no fever, all normal. What is it?

Stephen J. Pincus, MD · Answer

It is difficult to say what the exact cause of your smell is from. In many instances, there are raw areas covered by bloody crusts, as may be the case if turbinate surgery was performed, and superficial bacterial colonization may occur under these crusts. Though not of any clinical significance, they may produce a foul odor. Sometimes a sinusitis may result from the initial packing which should be addressed with antibiotics. I have even heard of foreign body reactions taking place in the nose causing odors. It sounds as though you are doing everything correctly . However, I would check back with your surgeon to have him re-evaluate it.

John Layke, DO, FACS · Answer

It is not uncommon for you to have an altered sense of smell and taste for several weeks following rhinoplasty.  This usually resolves by 2-3 months.  Relay your concerns to your surgeon and he or she will provide you with a reasonable timeline of events to expect certain results.

S. Randolph Waldman, MD · Answer

Although it is not uncommon to experience a notable odor in the first few weeks post rhinoplasty; (most often it is due to the dissolvable suture used to fixate the septum)... I would recommend you contact your surgeon for his opinion and evaluation as to the source. He would know what approach was used, and possible other extenuating circumstances involved with your procedure.

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

If you have an odor that others can smell, I suggest you see your doctor.  He/she can look inside and evaluate the situation.  You may need cleansing and/or antibiotics.

Maan Kattash, MD, FRCS, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

This is not uncommon. Most surgeons use internally dissolving sutures such as catgut to close the lining of the nose. As these dissolve with time, they create a smell. This may last up to 3 months. Local nasal hygiene as well using wet Q-tips to clean the nose internally may help. If the smell is strong, or if you develop fever or tenderness, it may be a good idea to have it checked out by your surgeon.

Smell from nose 4 weeks post-rhinoplasty - but no other symptoms?

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Answer: L from nose 4 weeks post-rhinoplasty - but no other symptoms?

Answer: L from nose 4 weeks post-rhinoplasty - but no other symptoms?

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Smell from nose 4 weeks post-rhinoplasty - but no other symptoms?

Answers (6)

Answer: Http://www.beverlyhills-plasticsurgery.com/cheek-implants/

Answer: Http://www.beverlyhills-plasticsurgery.com/cheek-implants/

Answer: L from nose 4 weeks post-rhinoplasty - but no other symptoms?

Answer: L from nose 4 weeks post-rhinoplasty - but no other symptoms?

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