My Nose Looks Unusual After Septoplasty, like a Pig Snout. Will This Last Forever?

Question

I had septoplasty 4 days ago---my splints removed this morning.My nose is still quite swollen; however my bigger concern is that my nostrils and tip of my nose is upturned...like a snout. I am really upset and scared of my appearance. What should I expect of the swelling and my appearance moving forward?

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Dear Jen41117,

	
		It may look scary, but swelling in the nose can cause it to turn upwards
	
		It should come down as the swelling does
	
		If you would like to send pictures, please feel free to do so


	Best regards,

	Nima Shemirani

Ivan Wayne, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your frustration. Without photos it is hard to answer your specific question as it relates to your nose. In general a simple septoplasty would not typically change the position of the tip. There are cases where there is a very crooked septum that is off to one side and when it is repaired (and brought back to the middle) it has the effect of pushing the tip of the nose up. A sophisticated rhinoplasty surgeon can use the septum to control the position of the nasal tip with tongue and groove suturing, though this would more commonly be part of a septo-rhinoplasty.

	Fortunately in most cases the swelling of the septal surgery is what is causing the tip to seem turned up. This should come down in a few weeks. The best answer to your question is to ask your surgeon. I hope this helps.

John Bitner, MD · Answer

Typically a septoplasty will not change the external appearance of the nose at all.  There are a couple exceptions, usually for a very crooked nose where larger supporting portions of the septum is removed, recontoured and replaced.

Thomas A. Lamperti, MD · Answer

It's hard to give you much advice without seeing your nose and knowing exactly was done during your surgery.

	A regular septoplasty doesn't normally change the outward appearance of the nose, but perhaps a more extensive procedure was done.

	I'd suggest that you talk with your surgeon about your concerns. You're more likely to get accurate advice that way.

Michael L. Schwartz, MD · Answer

It's difficult to judge what your concerns are without photos. It is safe to assume that 4 days postop you could be very swollen and not at all seeing what your final result will be.

My Nose Looks Unusual After Septoplasty, like a Pig Snout. Will This Last Forever?

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My Nose Looks Unusual After Septoplasty, like a Pig Snout. Will This Last Forever?

Answers (6)

Answer: Upturned nose after septoplasty

Answer: Upturned nose after septoplasty

Answer: Nose looks unusual

Answer: Nose looks unusual

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Septoplasty

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