Nose still very swollen 1.5 years after rhinoplasty and Kenalog injections last less than a week - advice?

Hello! Thank you for your question.From my experience swelling can last up to 2 years maximum depending on your skin. If you have thick skin, it is normal that you are still swollen after 1,5 years. Anyway, without your face photos it is very hard to evaluate your case.To help with your swelling I recommend you to adapt a diet with anti-inflammatory foods.Best regards!

Since you are one and a half years after rhinoplasty surgery, the majority if not all of your nasal swelling should be gone. It is difficult to Advise on your situation without photos. Please consider re-asking your questions with before and after photos. I hope this will be helpful! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Hello! Thanks for your questions. Swelling after rhinoplasty tends to level-out significantly at 1.5 years. Steroid injections sometimes need to be repeated over many months with increasing concentrations. Taping nightly is also very important to encourage skin memory and reduction in swelling. A low salt diet is imperative. If you notice improvements, it means there's still time for improvement. I often employ compressions in areas of swelling. The injections take effect usually within days and can last 2-3 weeks at which time they should be repeated pending response. If you have thick skin, Accutane can be helpful. Hope this helps!

It's not uncommon for swelling to persist for several months or even up to a year after rhinoplasty surgery. While steroid/kenalog shots can help to reduce swelling and promote healing, the effects can vary from patient to patient, and it's possible that you may require additional treatments.

It's important to communicate with your surgeon about your concerns and any changes you've noticed in the appearance of your nose. Your surgeon may recommend additional treatments or adjustments to help achieve the desired results. It's important to be patient and follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully, as healing can be a gradual process.

It's also important to keep in mind that rhinoplasty is a complex surgery, and achieving the desired results can take time and patience. It's essential to have realistic expectations for the results and to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who can provide personalized recommendations and guidance throughout the recovery process.

If you have any concerns about your recovery or the results of your surgery, it's important to communicate with your surgeon and seek their guidance and advice. They can evaluate your specific situation and provide personalized recommendations for the best course of action.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Effect of Kenalog injections: in most patients Kenalog has a two phase effect. There is a peak effect in about one to two weeks which then partially wears off over the next 6 to 8 weeks. Whatever effect remains after eight weeks should be permanent. If you are getting minimal effect, it may just mean that you need more of it, Either a stronger concentration or more frequent dosage. I for one use very weak concentrations since an overdose can thin and atrophy the skin causing dents which could be obvious and difficult to fix. So most surgeons use very dilute quantities and approach it gradually with multiple small injections. If you get a short term effect which you like, it usually indicates the potential is there for getting that affect on a permanent basis simply by continuing the shots.