8 weeks post-op my nose is asymmetrical. Is it swelling? Advice? (photos)

Question

When my cast was first taken off I noticed very obvious asymmetry. My doctor said it was just swelling, however a week later he said internal stitches must have fallen out and he wanted to recut and restitch the incision on my right side for my nostril)my right). It has been 6 weeks since he performed that revision, but my nose is still very asymmetrical. I let him know my concerns and that i was worried it may be my alar but he just keeps telling me it’s swelling. Should I get a second opinion? Advice?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello. Great question. Congratulations on your rhinoplasty. Thank you for all your pictures. However, you are still early in your recovery process. This procedure involves the manipulation of the nasal bones and nasal cartilage, which then leads to an abundance of swelling. The swelling causes your nose to look abnormal. It also misguides the results of your procedure. It takes a few months to one year for all the swelling to go down. Until then we can examine your final results. Be patient. I will suggest waiting before making conclusions or thinking of undergoing another procedure. Continue to go to your follow up appointments with your surgeon as he knows you best. If concerns persist, please contact a board certified plastic surgeon for a detailed examination.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and congratulations on your rhinoplasty. While it may seem like you have been waiting a long time to see the results of your surgery already, you are still in the thick of the healing process. Swelling can persist for many months after nose surgery, which prevents you from seeing the full effects. I would keep all your follow-up appointments with your surgeon to ensure the recovery process continues to go well and address concerns as they arise. I would guess that in a few more months, you will likely see very positive results from your rhinoplasty. Good luck to you!

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. It takes about 2-3 months after a rhinoplasty for the nose to settle into the face. At that point, you can start to see the changes to your nose. Keep in mind that your nose is not fully recovered until the 12 month post op mark. Remain patient during your recovery and follow the instructions provided by your board certified facial plastic surgeon.
Best wishes,

Steven M. Camp, MD · Answer

Thanks for sharing your story and photos.The timeline of your photos shows that the swelling continues to improve and I expect that you will continue to see refinements in the shape of your nose for several months.  Stay connected with your board certified plastic surgeon to make sure you are on track and getting the expected result.  It is still too early to make any final judgement on the outcome.Best Wishes.

8 weeks post-op my nose is asymmetrical. Is it swelling? Advice? (photos)

Answers (4)