I had septo/rhinoplasty almost two weeks ago and I still have a numb feeling behind my two front teeth. I've read that this can stay like this permanently. It kind of stings and is just uncomfortable in general. Any idea when this should go away?
Answer: Numbness and rhinoplasty In general, almost all noses are numb right after a rhinoplasty. In most cases its the tip that is numb, but this numbness can extend down to the upper lip, and in rare cases some of the teeth. There are nerves that are cut and stretched during a rhinoplasty, and it takes a long time for those nerves to start working again. This is true of an open as well as closed rhinoplasty, although it tends to be more extensive in open rhinoplasty. This could also be more extensive if a septoplasty is performed at the same time. This, along with the swelling, gives you a stiff, plastic type feel, and can give you an odd smile. However, the nerves will start working and again, and your nose stiffness will go away with time. As the nerves grow back, you may feel some tingling, itchiness and on occasion pain. This takes in most cases months, but can take years in rare cases. Extremely rarely, the numbness is permanent, although I have never seen such as case.Best Wishes,Pablo Prichard, MD
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Answer: Numbness and rhinoplasty In general, almost all noses are numb right after a rhinoplasty. In most cases its the tip that is numb, but this numbness can extend down to the upper lip, and in rare cases some of the teeth. There are nerves that are cut and stretched during a rhinoplasty, and it takes a long time for those nerves to start working again. This is true of an open as well as closed rhinoplasty, although it tends to be more extensive in open rhinoplasty. This could also be more extensive if a septoplasty is performed at the same time. This, along with the swelling, gives you a stiff, plastic type feel, and can give you an odd smile. However, the nerves will start working and again, and your nose stiffness will go away with time. As the nerves grow back, you may feel some tingling, itchiness and on occasion pain. This takes in most cases months, but can take years in rare cases. Extremely rarely, the numbness is permanent, although I have never seen such as case.Best Wishes,Pablo Prichard, MD
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July 30, 2014
Answer: Numbness after rhinoplasty It would be very unlikely to have permanent numbness of your teeth from a septorhinoplasty. It may take several weeks or even a few months for total sensation to completely return. There is no large nerve trunk that is injured with your surgery on only a fine network of nerve endings that will regenerate over time. Good luck. Donald R. Nunn MD, DDS Atlanta Plastic Surgeon.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
July 30, 2014
Answer: Numbness after rhinoplasty It would be very unlikely to have permanent numbness of your teeth from a septorhinoplasty. It may take several weeks or even a few months for total sensation to completely return. There is no large nerve trunk that is injured with your surgery on only a fine network of nerve endings that will regenerate over time. Good luck. Donald R. Nunn MD, DDS Atlanta Plastic Surgeon.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
