Are my uneven nostrils due to swelling? (Photos)

Question

Hi, I already talked to my surgeon, but I wanted a second opinion. I am exactly 2 weeks post-op and of course still experiencing a ton of swelling. I've been taking arnica & bromelian religiously since I've been in recovery, but know that it just takes time & patience. I'm concerned though because my nostrils look really different and the middle almost looks like it's attached/healing crooked. Do you think it's just swelling?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

At this point, you are still very early in your recovery process and should be experiencing significant swelling. This could certainly affect the appearance of your nostrils. While I commend you for taking the necessary steps to support your healing, there is really no substitute for patience in this case. It can take up to a year for swelling to go down completely. Once you hit the one-year mark, you can consider revision rhinoplasty if you are not happy with your result. However, you can expect to see many changes before the one-year mark rolls around and it is likely your nose will look much better and more symmetrical by then.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello. Great question. Congratulations on your procedure. You are still early in your recovery process. There is a lot of swelling still present. Swelling can misguide your final results. Be patient. Keep following your surgeon's post of instructions.

Thuy-Van Tina Ho, MD · Answer

Dear acr534,
Thank you for your question. It is difficult to make an accurate assessment and recommendations based on photographs alone. I recommend you continue to seek re-evaluation with your surgeon who can perform repeat exams and discuss with you expectations or management options to best address your issues. You are very early in the healing process; a lot of the swelling may take at least a month to go down with continued decrease in swelling to gradually occur over months to a year or so. If at a year out from surgery your asymmetry persists, you could discuss with your surgeon then whether a revision procedure may be beneficial.

Anthony Bared, MD, FACS · Answer

It is far too soon to appreciate results at this point in the healing process.  Swelling is a result of water retention in the skin of the nose and unfortunately is not helped by supplements--only time will resolve the swelling.  You will notice that your nose will fluctuate in swelling on a daily basis.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

As you know, 2 weeks is too soon to evaluate your final results after rhinoplasty, so much of what you’re seeing is very hard and swollen. We have seen asymmetry like yours get significantly better with time. Please be patient and feel reassured that the asymmetry now is barely visible when you’re looking straight at the camera. Keep smiling, put your nose on the back burner, and feel free to keep us posted. Wishing you well. Dr Joseph

Are my uneven nostrils due to swelling? (Photos)

Answers (5)