Will I loose my columella due to necrosis? (Photos)

Question

I am 10 days post op after Open Rhinoplasty. My stitches we're removed but I have scabs left, when my doctor tries to remove it said that it was necrotic and now i'm scared i might lost my columella and there will be a gap. There was a ear cartillage strut placed on my columella. My doctor told me not to do anything about it and it's still under observation and i was put on antibiotics(co amoxiclav 625mg), Vitamin c (sodium ascorbate) and ointment (mupirocin).

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

The black skin is indeed dead (necrotic), but it is impossible to see whether this extends deeper into the adjacent mucosa, septal cartilage, or whether the cartilage strut has become exposed (bacterially-contaminated) and may also be lost. Taking things apart now only potentially worsens the healing, so continued follow-up with your surgeon is essential to minimize the impact of this problem. More surgery will be necessary, but likely not major revision. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

Based on the pictures posted, it seems that part of the columella is devascularized and is necrotic. At the present time this needs to be cleaned daily and treated with antibiotic cream. Then needs debridement and evaluate the viability of the cartilage and how to cover it. You should follow up with your surgeon very closely

Will I loose my columella due to necrosis? (Photos)

Answers (2)