What if major blood vessels are damaged during rhinoplasty? What can be done?

The paired columellar arteries are severed during an open rhinoplasty; however, angular arteries from each side of the nose continue to supply the tip via anastomoses.  This should provide sufficient blood supply even in cold conditions.  If concerned about exposure, it may be best to wait a year after surgery before risking extreme exposure situations.  Best wishes, Dr. T. 

It is unlikely that your nose is at risk for losing blood supply, especially since you are many months out from surgery. I would not worry about this. 

Dear joshhhi, It is normal to have some numbness after surgery and decreased tip sensation after rhinoplasty. This usually resolves with time. However, this does not explain the cold insensitivity. I recommend following with your rhinoplasty surgeon to have a nasal examination completed to rule out any issues.

The nasal tip has paired blood supply from several arteries so it would be very unusual to severely affect blood flow. To assess flow press on the tip with your finger until it blanches, release, and see how rapidly the color returns. It should be just a few seconds. The other reason for it to feel cold is loss of sensation which may take a year to recover.  I would be concerned if it gets white when in the cold. Hope that helps.