What is this redness after revision rhinoplasty?

Question

I had a revision rhinoplasty 6 months ago. And my results are favorable expect for the discoloration of the lower 2/3 of my nose. It is constantly a bit more red than the upper part, making it look like my nose is made up of 2 different noses. Is this still swelling? I do not have any infection or discomfort.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

At six months after revision rhinoplasty, most of the healing, softening, and swelling resolution has occurred, but you may still see subtle changes for up to a year. Residual redness in the lower 2/3 of the nasal skin can be related to the surgical changes in the skin's circulation--by now this is probably relatively stable and unlikely to improve dramatically, even with further passage of time. Or, you may also have had early or undiagnosed Acne Rosacea that has either flared following your surgery, or simply become more visible at this time totally coincidental to your nasal surgery. In either case, consultation with a Dermatologist may provide topical or oral medications that can provide improvements in about half of cases. I'd start here.

	If this is unsuccessful, then IPL or pulsed dye laser treatment by a qualified and experienced laser surgeon can dramatically improve the redness (due to dilation of the superficial capillaries in the skin), often with just one or two treatments, and regardless of the cause! This is your second step! Good luck!

Jamil Ahmad, MD · Answer

Persistent nasal skin discoloration can occur after rhinoplasty. Reddish-purple discoloration as well as slow capillary refill (blanching of the skin with pressure followed by a very slow return of the pink color after the pressure has been removed) that alters with temperature can signify altered and compromised circulation in the nasal skin. Over time, the discoloration should slowly improve and in many instances will eventually return to normal. It is hard to say just how long it will take but typically a year or more is needed to allow the tissues to heal.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

If the vascular changes are still present at one year you may wish to try IPL or YAG laser treatments - these will reduce the vascularity and redness of the skin

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

I read your concern. Persistent, non-tender redness of your nasal skin after revision rhinoplasty surgery will slowly resolve. I have seen this in a small number of patients following rhinoplasty surgery, and it may represent an exacerbation of rosacea.

	If your surgeon is unable to help you, you could consult a reputable dermatologist for advice. In my practice, 3 or 4 IPL PhotoFacial treatments have been helpful in reducing nasal redness.

	I hope this is helpful for you.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

If you do not have an infection the redness is most likey due to hyperemia from postoperative vascular engorgement unless you ahve some other condition such as rhinophyma.

What is this redness after revision rhinoplasty?

Answers (8)

Answer: Non-tender skin redness after Rhinoplasty Surgery will gradually subside.

Answer: Non-tender skin redness after Rhinoplasty Surgery will gradually subside.

Answer: Persistent post operative red discoloration to nasal tip after nose job

Answer: Persistent post operative red discoloration to nasal tip after nose job

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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What is this redness after revision rhinoplasty?

Answers (8)

Answer: Non-tender skin redness after Rhinoplasty Surgery will gradually subside.

Answer: Non-tender skin redness after Rhinoplasty Surgery will gradually subside.

Answer: Persistent post operative red discoloration to nasal tip after nose job

Answer: Persistent post operative red discoloration to nasal tip after nose job

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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.