I had rhinoplasty 6 weeks ago. Why does my nose look piggish? (Photo)

Question

I had rhinoplasty 6 weeks ago to have a hump removed and to narrow it just a bit. Yet my nose looks extremely lifted giving off a pig look. I am extremely depressed to the point that I am avoiding friends and family. Will my nose come down or do I need revision?! Is there anything I can do to speed the process?

A. Joshua Zimm, MD · Answer

At 6 weeks, depending upon what techniques were used during your surgery, there will be variable amounts of swelling remaining.  The tip may come down a bit more as well.  You should speak to your surgeon regarding your concerns.  Best wishes.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Your before profile photo appears to show an obtuse nasolabial angle, and your tip does not appear overrotated. Your tip may drop a few millimeters as your swelling resolves, and your mild nostril asymmetry may resolve as well. Consider discussing your concerns with your surgeon for reassurance, or consider getting a second opinion from another rhinoplasty specialist since digital photos rarely tell the whole story. Wishing you well. Dr Joseph

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

At 6 weeks post-op, it is possible that you still have some residual swelling. While the majority of swelling and bruising generally dissipates after a month or two, some minor swelling can still occur for up to six months or a year after rhinoplasty surgery. If you are still unhappy with the shape of your nose after 6 months, visit your plastic surgeon to discuss a possible revision rhinoplasty. Generally, revision rhinoplasty should not be undertaken until after a year has passed from the initial rhinoplasty.

Benjamin C. Paul, MD · Answer

I am sorry to read that you are so unhappy after surgery. The tip is rotated and blunted, which makes you feel piggy.  You are swollen, and this contributes to a lack of defined tip architecture. Hopefully, as the swelling leaves, the tip will fall and have more definition. Regarding rotation, your tip position is based on the underlying cartilage structure. Only your surgeon knows the exact maneuvers performed... and if permanent support or temporary support is holding your tip.  Most things fall with gravity and time, but it really depends on what was done.  Happy to evaluate the operative report if you can access it. Good luck!  Hopefully your nose will settle to a place that brings you relief... and ideally joy.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

It is extremely common for the nasal swelling to elevate the tip, causing this type of appearance. It will take months for this to recede and for the nose to drop. Have patience!

Randy J. Buckspan, MD (retired) · Answer

It does take time for your nose to heal after a rhinoplasty.  By six weeks most of the swelling and bruising is gone.  But, healing is still going on.  We don't know exactly what was done during your surgery, but treatment of the tip may have a tendency to raise the tip a bit at first and then settle over several months as it heals.  Your plastic surgeon can explain what was done and be with you as you heal.

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