Tip implant visible after rhinoplasty. Is this likely to become more prominent as the swelling decreases? (Photo)

Question

I had a revision rhinoplasty a few weeks ago. I can see a circular outline where cartilage material was used in the tip. The left & right edges of the circle feel sharp & look like sharp points on my skin. I know it is early days after the surgery but I'm concerned that this may only become more prominent as the swelling decreases. Is that likely to be the case? & if so what are my options in the future?

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

It is likely that the cartilage graft will become more visible as the swelling goes down, and visibility can increase for years.   In patients who do not have thick skin, cartilage grafts on the nasal tip that are placed as onlay grafts as it appears in your case have a significant risk of visibility.  It is too early to do anything about it, but in all likelihood a revision will be necessary to make the graft less visible, but since the graft is at the tip, it may not need to be a major revision.  I would discuss your concerns with your surgeon, but at this time you need to wait at least several months before considering a revision. There really is not anything non surgical that can be done.

Andrew S. Frankel, MD · Answer

As a general rule the edges of grafts become more visible as the swelling diminishes and the skin envelope contracts around the underlying structure of the nose. Without knowing specifically what was done to your tip one cannot make an accurate assessment of things. Sometimes the taping of the nose in the immediate post op period results in strange irregularities because of the way the tape 'molds' the swelling. This effect goes away a few days after the tape is removed however.I would recommend that you return to your surgeon for a discussion.There is no solid reason that surgery must be delayed for 'one year' and sometimes it's more beneficial to act sooner rather than later.

Earl E. Ferguson III, MD, FACS · Answer

Give this time. As you know, tip swelling takes months to resolve. It appears that the swelling around the graft is accentuating its visibility. As that swelling goes away, it should make the graft outline less distinct. If that does not occur, sometimes the tip graft must be modified or even removed entirely. This can sometimes be done through a closed rather than full open approach, though would probably still require a trip to the operating room. Discuss your concerns with your surgeon and get his or her thoughts on the matter.

Tip implant visible after rhinoplasty. Is this likely to become more prominent as the swelling decreases? (Photo)

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Tip implant visible after rhinoplasty. Is this likely to become more prominent as the swelling decreases? (Photo)

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.