2 months post op, extremely bulbous tip. Tip was defined after surgery up until approx 5 weeks post op. Is this normal? (photo)

Question

I'm worried about my rhinoplasty results. 2 months post-op. Tip looks horrendous! About 3 weeks ago, it swelled up. My tip was defined and wonderful from cast removal up until about 5 weeks post op. I don't understand why I would have swelling at this point, it seems that swelling is supposed to get gradually BETTER over the first few months, not worse. Could this have to do with resuming vigorous exercise? The swelling seems to have begun around the time I started running six miles a day.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Two months is a bit too soon to
tell, and it is likely that you have swelling at this
time. Depending on the nature of your surgery, it can take up to one year
to see the final result.  This is especially true if tip work was
performed during your surgery. It is unusual that the tip would becoming larger overtime.  You could be developing scar tissue or have an infections/inflammation.  You may need to get injections in your nose at this time.  I would see your rhinoplasty surgeon and discuss your concerns.  Thank you and good luck with your recovery!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Swelling in the tip can last for a long time and often gets worse with increased acitivity. You have to be patient. If concerned, speak to your surgeon.

David Reinstadler, MD · Answer

The healing process after rhinoplasty is very dynamic. Usually for the few weeks after the splint comes off, the nose can become more swollen due to redistribution of the fluid. Then the swelling starts to subside but begins at the top of the dorsum, and drains by gravity. This leaves the tip to be swollen the longest. Exercise, salt, alcohol, can all contribute to increased swelling. Even for many months, you may notice that your nose is more swollen the morning following a workout, glass of wine, or sushi. This trend will gradually decrease and your good days will start to outnumber your bad days. I usually see my patients back 6 weeks after surgery and some of them need a steroid injection to help the swelling resolve faster. Speak to your surgeon and see what their recommendations are. Best of luck

2 months post op, extremely bulbous tip. Tip was defined after surgery up until approx 5 weeks post op. Is this normal? (photo)

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2 months post op, extremely bulbous tip. Tip was defined after surgery up until approx 5 weeks post op. Is this normal? (photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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