I have a hard bump on nose 3 months after rhinoplasty, it is getting more noticeable after swelling. Is this normal? (Photos)

Question

When the cast was removed my nose was still swollen and it was perfectly curved just how I wanted it to look. As weeks and months have passed the swelling on my nose has diminished tremendously and there is now an obvious hard lump where the bone was shaved off. Im very concerned and know it is still early on, but I haven't noticed this bump going down at all, feels hard as a bone. It just keeps getting more noticeable! Please any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Adam Bryce Weinfeld, MD · Answer

It is possible the bump you see is still swelling since you are only 3 months out after surgery.  Swelling can take 6-12 months to resolve.  If it does not resolve with time, I recommend you speak with your surgeon about possible revisions.

Thomas Buonassisi, MD · Answer

It’s common to experience swelling and changes in appearance after rhinoplasty, especially in the months following cast removal. The lump you're noticing could be residual swelling or scar tissue, which can feel firm and take time to soften. While it’s normal for the healing process to take up to a year, if the lump persists or becomes more prominent, it’s best to consult with your surgeon. They can assess whether it's a natural part of healing or if additional treatment, such as massage, injections, or revision, may be needed to smooth the area.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

It appears that when the dorsum was reduced, a small irregularity of the contour persisted.  Sometimes this can be treated under local anesthesia with rasping.

Anthony Bared, MD, FACS · Answer

It is common for bumps and asymmetries to reveal themselves as the swelling resolves after rhinoplasty.  It is best to see your surgeon as they would know exactly what was performed in the area and would be able to best guide you in the healing process.  Techniques can be employed post-operatively by your surgeon to help diminish these bumps.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

You may still have a small bump of cartilage or bone over that area. If it persists at a year, then a small rasping or possibly opening to trim it will be necessary. Good luck.

Oleh Slupchynskyj, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Hi,Although you are still early post-op period, it appears that you have some cartilage on your nasal bridge. It is not uncommon for asymmetries to exist during the healing phase as the swelling subsides.  If the bump remains after 6-8 more months, I would consider a revision to eliminate the bump. This can be done by rasping the bump down. Schedule a follow-up appointment with the surgeon that performed your rhinoplasty. You may also want to seek second opinions. 
Best,Dr. S

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I have a hard bump on nose 3 months after rhinoplasty, it is getting more noticeable after swelling. Is this normal? (Photos)

Answers (6)

RHINOPLASTY PROVIDERS NEAR YOU