Rhinoplasty: 10 months post-op, swelling, bulbous, uneven. Is this my final result?

Question

I am currently 10 months post op and while my nasal bones are slimmer, the tip of my nose is very boxy/bulbous & uneven. And it’s larger on the right side (in the photo). I had a closed rhinoplasty. My surgeon did not use any grafts. I understand I have thick skin and swelling can take time, but shouldn't it have gotten a little better than this? My nose was more smooth and even before. Is this the nose I'm now stuck with? Do I need a revision? What would you recommend?

Cem Altindag, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for the question. After 12 months completed following your nose job, you may think a revision surgery. Regards. Dr. Cem Altindag. The Nose Clinic Istanbul TR

Marc Polacco, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I'm sorry you're going through this. You are 100% correct in that the thicker the nasal skin, the longer it takes for swelling to resolve and for the skin to "shrink wrap" down. Typically the nasal tip is the very last area for swelling to resolve, and this may take up to 18 months. Although difficult, I would recommend waiting a bit longer to see how your nose continues to settle before seeking revision. I hope that helps, and I wish you all the best.
-Dr. P

William Portuese, MD · Answer

From the limited photograph, it appears that you have very thick skin in the tip of the nose which cannot be reduced with a rhinoplasty procedure. There's a limit as to how much cartilage that can be removed from the nasal tip without creating further problems. Consider going back to your original surgeon for placement of some steroid shots in your tip to reduce the current swelling that is present. An alar plasty performed under local anesthesia can reduce the size of the nostrils.

Rhinoplasty: 10 months post-op, swelling, bulbous, uneven. Is this my final result?

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Rhinoplasty: 10 months post-op, swelling, bulbous, uneven. Is this my final result?

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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