Nose Still So Swollen 4 Months Post Rhinoplasty

Although swelling after rhinoplasty very slowly resolves, this resolution follows a curve such that most of the significant swelling resolves early.  This early rapid resolution of swelling which occurs during the first three months after the procedure is followed my many months of continued resolution of edema (swelling).  During this late period, in addition to diminished swelling, parts of the nose that were operated on contract somewhat from the formation of scar.  This scarring and contracture also affects the final result.  You should see the final shape of the nose by three months after your procedure, but the size continues to reduce slowly for many months.

It’s not unusual for patients undergoing rhinoplasty to have prolonged swelling. Several factors including the use of open rhinoplasty, fracture of the nasal bones, thickness of the nasal skin and previous rhinoplasty have been associated with prolonged swelling.
                Most patients will note significant swelling for about two weeks following surgery. After two to three weeks, most patients are comfortable resuming their normal lives and going out in public.

                Swelling will persist in most patients for at least one year following surgery, with the nasal tip being the last site to experience resolution. In the immediate post-operative period, nasal splints, elevation of the head and ice can be used to minimize swelling. 

Thank
you for submitting your question. It is unusual for you not to notice a difference 4 months after surgery.  Review your before and after photos with your surgeon. Swelling after a rhinoplasty, with
tip work will last for a year.  Discuss your concerns
with your surgeon and follow his advise.   Best wishes

Thank you for your question regarding post-operative swelling after rhinoplasty.  It is understandable that you are concerned about the amount of swelling you still have following your procedure.  Depending upon the extent of your procedure, it can sometimes take as long as a year for final rhinoplasty results to be revealed.  However, at 4 months you should be seeing considerably less swelling that you had immediately following surgery. At this point, there may be some scar tissue developing in the area that is resulting in further swelling.  You should feel free to contact your surgeon at any time to discuss your concerns.  They should be able to advise you as to whether your healing is progressing normally.  Typically revisions would only be considered after a full year.  Good luck to you.

It is very common to be swollen for a year after rhinoplasty.  The stiffness will lessen with time.  By all means, see your Rhinoplasty Surgeon and get checked out, but again swelling is normal and can last for a year.  One should not be too enthusiastic about going back for revision surgery too soon...