Can a swollen columella cause nostrils to become more visible/upturned?

Question

It's been 5 1/2 weeks since my surgery and my nostrils are still more visible from the front than I'd ideally like them to be. My columella is still quite hard and swollen so I was wondering whether that may be the reason for the nostrils being so noticeable.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  It is very normal to still be swollen at this point.  There are many aspects of swelling which can cause changes in the shape of your nostrils.   I recommend
that you maintain close follow-up with your surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Tim Sayed, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

The answer is yes, swelling of the columella at least partially can  contribute to an appearance of slight overrotation of the tip, which can lead to more nostril show. Usually this would need to be accompanied by some swelling of the caudal septum and the tip soft tissues. It is also possible, of course, that the tip is a bit overrotated from surgical maneuvers. Without photos before and after and a physical exam, nobody can fully counsel you on whether what you are seeing is normal or excessive. Have you discussed with your surgeon? Resolution of swelling after rhinoplasty can take weeks to months to fully subside. Be patient but address your questions with the surgeon and see what kind of findings your surgeon identifies on exam.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

A swollen columella does not cause the tip/ Nostrils to become upturned  and visible. When the columella swollen, It is just excessively wide. Full healing after  a rhinoplasty takes one year, so it's important be patient with the healing process. Follow up with your original surgeon since it's only been five weeks.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

While you may still have swelling of the tip area 51/2 weeks after surgery it is impossible to answer your question without pictures. I suggest you be patient at this time.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

It takes months to a year for all the swelling to subside following Rhinoplasty surgery.  You have a lot of healing to do before you see the final result.  Don’t judge your result to early so you want be disappointed.  Follow up with your surgeon so he can monitor your progress.

Can a swollen columella cause nostrils to become more visible/upturned?

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