Bulbous tip after primary rhinoplasty - can it still considerably refine at that stage? (photos)

Question

I had my surgery 6 months ago and my tip is very round and large. My surgeon has been quite dismissive of my concern. The objective of the rhinoplasty was to get rid of a small bump but mainly to have a more structured tip. I don’t see any difference: it’s bulbous and too projected. Can it still considerably refine at that stage or should I mentally prepare for a revision?

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Regardless whether closed or open rhinoplasty is performed, tip is usually part of the nose with longest swelling and recovery; it takes good year for result to settle and mature. I would not suggest doing anything for at least another 6 months. Taping of the nose (we start that immediately after splint is removed) may, in some cases, help to control swelling and shape the tip. Discuss that option with your surgeon even this late after surgery, since it is very simple way of creating small but meaningful change. Good luck.

Selcuk Inanli, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question.As far as I can see from your photo for get rid of this image I recommend you revision rhinoplasty.It would be more convenient to decide with face-to-face consultation. Best regards!

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. It’s too soon to say your rhinoplasty results are final, because it isn't until a full year after a rhinoplasty that results are truly definitive. Your nose may still have some swelling and will still undergo changes. Bumps and irregularities are also not uncommon, plus the tip usually takes the longest to heal. If after a full year the bulbous tip is still pronounced, I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with a reputable board-certified facial plastic surgeon, particularly one with a strong rhinoplasty portfolio. Your surgeon will evaluate your nose, recommend the best course of action to address your concerns and goals, and help ensure the best possible outcome.

Robert Ciardullo, MD · Answer

Will your tip improve with time? The nasal tip is the last to take shape after rhinoplasty. In people with thin to average skin it can take a year before you see the final result . people with thick skin can take two years. Therefore I think the persisting bulbous appearance to the nose in the front view will probably improve with time, depending on what the surgeon did during the Rhinoplasty. In the profile view the tip does seem slightly over projected. It is less likely that this will improve with time significantly but it might improve slightly. In some cases slight improvement is all that is necessary to make it less obvious. So be patient since nothing can be done before at least a year has passed anyway.

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
The inflammatory swelling after surgery provides nutrients to the healing tissues. It will initially totally obscure the surgical result. As the swelling subsides, the result becomes more and more apparent. This process can take 18-24 months to be completed. The nasal tip is notorious for taking the longest time for resolution of swelling. 
Be patient.
Best wishes...

Bulbous tip after primary rhinoplasty - can it still considerably refine at that stage? (photos)

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