Why is it hard to breathe 9 months after rhinoplasty?

Question

It’s been 9 months since my rhinoplasty and I still find it hard to breathe at times. My breathing was perfectly fine before rhinoplasty. But now Every morning I wake up with clear mucus It’s harder to breathe mainly when I’m laying down.

Ross Farhadieh MD, FRCS, FRACS · Answer

Hi Thank you for your question intinisic to the survey is a degree of inflammation which often settles down in its main by 3 months. However, this can last up to a year. Structural disturbances may also result is this problem. A less but equally possible outcome is a neurogenic case for mucosal inflammation. You should see your surgeon for a further assessment.

Darryl Coombes, FRCS(OMFS), FDSRCS(Eng) · Answer

Airway issues following Rhinoplasty can be due to several problems. One issue can be inflammation of the nasal lining within the nose as a response to the surgery. In order to remedy this you could try ortrivine nasal drops or spray to decongest the inflamed mucosa within the nose. Sometimes steroid nasal drops / spray can also help.
Rarely structural problems within the nose can also reduce nasal airflow. E.g. were spreader grafts used to ensure a patent internal nasal valve? Has the surgery caused external nasal valve collapse- these are questions that you need to ask your surgeon.

Why is it hard to breathe 9 months after rhinoplasty?

Answers (2)