Nose Swelling Due to Salt and Exercise After Rhinoplasty

Question

My nose still swells up and becomes larger, more bulbous if I have too much salt or exercise, although it has been 3 years since my open Rhinoplasty. Why does this happen?

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Even though it has been three years since an open rhinoplasty, you are experiencing a fluid shift in your nose all due to lymphatic drainage. Fluid tends to follow the salt, and if you have had a salty meal, the nose will stay more swollen for a period of time. Exercise can also exacerbate this problem.

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

It's important to avoid salty and spicy food after your rhinoplasty surgery. Consuming too much salt can raise blood pressure and cause water retention. Moderate to intense exercise increases your heart rate and blood pressure as well. Therefore, you might have increased swelling which can prolong the healing process and negatively impact your results. 
However, in your case, 3 years is a very long time for your nose to still be affected by these. I suggest you contact your surgeon and get examined again by him. Best of luck to you.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

It is unusual for the nose to swell 3 years after a rhinoplasty after a low sodium diet and exercise.  Seek feedback from your rhinoplasty surgeon.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Salt and exercise can cause the nose to swell due to increased blood flow with exercise and edema from salt.
After 3 years this is unusual, so I suggest you see the surgeon who did the surgery just to make sure nothing else is going on.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

While it is commone during the first year to get swelling from high salt diets and exercise, it is uncommon at 3 years.  Perhaps go see your doctor for follow-up.

Nose Swelling Due to Salt and Exercise After Rhinoplasty

Answers (5)

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