Revision Rhinoplasty Cartilage Graft (Bridge) Swollen?

Question

I’m 7 days post-op. 1st rhino left a visible septal graft on the bridge. When my new PS opened me up, he found that the nasal bones had been damaged, which is why a graft had been placed there to hide it. So, he couldn't remove it, only reshape and resecure it. The bump is bigger now. The PS assured me that there is swelling involved, but he couldn't say for sure what the final result would be. I really do not want to have a 3rd revision. Must I resign myself to having a hump on the bridge of my nose?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Hello, and sorry to hear about the issue you are experiencing. After 7 days, you will still be considerably swollen, and this can influence your final result. Reshaping and placing a graft can cause significant swelling, and you will need to allow time to heal. It is way too early to be thinking about a revision, which should not be considered sooner than one year post-op. You do not have to settle with a bump on the nose, and a touch up can be performed down the road if necessary. Post-op swelling can be influenced by the following:

	1) Whether the procedure was open or closed
	2) Thickness of the patient's skin
	3) Whether the procedure was a revision
	4) Whether or not tip work was performed

	It would be a good idea to keep in touch with your surgeon while you heal, as they will be able to advise you.

Paul S. Nassif, MD · Answer

7 days is still very soon after surgery, and you are near the peak of your swelling. Swelling can cause the appearance of asymmetry and irregularities, and will take time to resolve. In general, 70% of the swelling goes down after the first 3 months and the remainder goes down over time. It can take 18-24 months to see the final result of your procedure. I would recommend giving it some time and see how you continue to heal. You should wait one year before considering any revision work. I would recommend following up with your surgeon regarding any concerns, as they will be able to provide you with advice on your issue. I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck with the remainder of your recovery.

Evan Ransom, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for the question. I understand your concern, but only a week out from surgery it is really too early to make any judgements on the profile. Swelling over the bridge can be significant in primary rhinoplasty -- and is even more so after a revision procedure. Please stay in touch with your surgeon during the post-op period.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

It's too early to know what your final profile will be 7 days after surgery since there certainly will be swelling there.  Follow up closely with your doctor as he/she may recommend measures such as taping to hep expedite the resolution of swelling on your dorsum (bridge).

Revision Rhinoplasty Cartilage Graft (Bridge) Swollen?

Answers (4)

Answer: Dorsal edema after revision rhinoplasty

Answer: Dorsal edema after revision rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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Revision Rhinoplasty Cartilage Graft (Bridge) Swollen?

Answers (4)

Answer: Dorsal edema after revision rhinoplasty

Answer: Dorsal edema after revision rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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