Will my columella incision heal back to normal?

Question

2-month post-op and my columella incision looks like a mess. My surgeon repeatedly assured that everything is fine and it should go back to normal in a few weeks. I am extremely skeptical considering how it looks like at the moment. On top of that it seems clear to me the caudal portion of my septum is deviated and is bulging out into my left nostril. Please advise on the situation.

Nirmal Nathan, MD · Answer

It does appear you caudal septum is deviated, which is a different issue than your columnellar incision healing. The caudal septum position will likely not get better, although sometimes it will improve as the swelling takes 6-12 months to completely resolve. Regarding you incision, I would continue to wait. If after a year you are unhappy it can be revised along with the septum. Good luck!

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

In short- the answer is no. I am opposed to cutting the columella for a Primary or even a Revision Rhinoplasty. I believe the negatives of a columella transaction outweigh all the positives. In summary- I believe that the endo-nasal /internal incision is optimal to achieve the best result- in the correct hands.. Although it may be slightly improved- in time- it will never be gone. Any further septal improvement can be achieved through hidden internal incisions.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Jj1009, Personally I prefer to use a higher incision that is a notched columellar incision and this technique heals quickly with no visible signs of the incision. With that said, you should see improvement. I would suggest seeing your surgeon and expressing your concerns. For many examples see the seven day post op results in my video library and the video below. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

You are early in recovery and I would expect that your incision will look much better in 6 months and subsequently one year after surgery.  It is very important that you discuss your concerns in person with your plastic surgeon who performed your rhinoplasty.

Will my columella incision heal back to normal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Will my columella Rhinoplasty incision heal back to normal?

Answer: Will my columella Rhinoplasty incision heal back to normal?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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

Will my columella incision heal back to normal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Will my columella Rhinoplasty incision heal back to normal?

Answer: Will my columella Rhinoplasty incision heal back to normal?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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