Why is my nose tip discolored one year post rhinoplasty? (photo)

Question

I had a rhinoplasty exactly one year ago for a congenital open roof deformity. The plan was to essentially push my nose bones together to reduce the flatness however a month after surgery the bones separated again leaving me with the same problem. I intend to have the surgery redone, as I feel my nose looks collapsed. The tip of my nose was also left permenately red/discolored. Is this something to be concerned about (my doctor said it’s normal)?

Steven M. Denenberg, MD · Answer

In this one view, I don't see the red -- I see a depression between the tip and the upper boney part. Profile and three-quarter views would show better what's going on. It's not "normal" for the tip of the nose to get and stay red after surgery.Be sure to read the section in the "Learn more" link on how to stay out of trouble while searching for a rhinoplasty surgeon, and how to tell whether your previous surgeon should be performing your revision. You should only have surgery if you are able to make yourself very confident in your surgeon's skills. Read that page very carefully. 
Your nose is also a good example of why computer imaging is mandatory in rhinoplasty. You need to know exactly what the surgeon is planning to accomplish -- what features he thinks he can change, and by how much he thinks he can change them. When you see his goals, you'll know whether he has an eye for an attractive nose, and whether he shares your opinion of what constitutes an attractive nose. You'll also know whether the changes he proposes are enough to be meaningful to you, and whether he understands your wishes enough to address all of your priorities. But remember, you're not hiring him for his skills with the computer. The doctor must then show you his before and after photos to prove that he can actually accomplish what he draws on the computer. At the *very* bottom of the "Learn more" page is a link to instructions on taking and sending photos that are comprehensive and useful for an online consultation like this, in case you'd like a more complete evaluation.

Marcelo Ghersi, MD · Answer

This is a bit unusual, especially one year out. I would have the nose evaluated by 1-2 other doctors for a second opinion. Looks like you may have a saddle deformity. Good luck.

Why is my nose tip discolored one year post rhinoplasty? (photo)

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Why is my nose tip discolored one year post rhinoplasty? (photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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