Can poor skin care effect rhinoplasty results?

Question

I'm 5 months post op and my nose looks way worse than at 2 months post op. I was scared of touching my nose, so I didn't wash it properly for 3 months. I still washed my face, but I would only lightly wash my nose. This caused a ton of dead skin to build up on my nose into a layer of skin. Two weeks ago, I got a facial. I had my surgery overseas, so I couldn't get direct help. As you can see in the photo, my nose is much worse than at 2 months. Is my result compromised?

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

You are still early in your recovery period and the nose is expected to be quite swollen at this point.The swelling during this time is rarely symmetric. One side will always resolve more quickly than the other. The majority of the swelling will resolve in 3-6 months, and will continue to resolve as your nose heals for up to 1-2 years. You have not reached your final shape as the nose will continue to heal and reduce in size for up to a year. Once it does reach its final shape you may be more pleased with the appearance of your nose.

Lane Smith, MD · Answer

Typically you will see full results in 1 year post rhinoplasty. Swelling can occur off and on as well. Medspas under a board certified plastic surgeon can offer skin care and can be careful around your concerns about touching the nose. (Howeve,r you should be able to wash your face as you have previously done prior to surgery at this point). Best of luck!

James M. Ridgway, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Anon,Thank you for your question.  This is a hard question and answer as there is a considerable amount of swelling and your nose in comparison to your performed photo.  Also, the details of whether nasal augmentation has happened is also unaddressed.  All things taken together, a good skin care regimen at this point will help clear some of the current effects that you see.  Considerable improvement will be seen up to 6 months and all results are considered "final" at 1 year.  I hope this helps you.Be healthy and be well, James M. Ridgway, M.D., FACS

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. It actually takes up to one full year for the nose to completely heal, and many patients see the most obvious changes at the three to four month mark. I suggest that you discuss best healing practices with your board certified facial plastic surgeon.
Best wishes,

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Poor skincare can affect the skin overlying the nose, but will not affect the surgical results from the rhinoplasty procedure which involves sculpting both bone and cartilage. For skincare issues, best to seek care by a dermatologist.

Can poor skin care effect rhinoplasty results?

Answers (5)

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