Solutions for Long-term Swelling After Rhinoplasty?

Question

Daniel Reichner, MD, FACS · Answer

Tara
Thank you for your question.  I would like to know exactly where on your nose you have the swelling - I am assuming that most of the swelling is around the tip and top of the nose.  Soft tissue swelling of the nose 20 years after a rhinoplasty is most likely due to vascular congestion.  I see many noses with numerous large blood vessels in the soft tissue over the tip and dorsum.   These vessels can become congested and cause the soft tissue to swell.  It is also possible that after a reduction rhinoplasty excess soft tissue and sub-dermal fat was never properly  addressed during the first rhinoplasty - creating a persistent supra-tip fullness or deformity.  The third possibility is that you have rhinophyma - an inflammatory condition of the soft tissue and skin of the nose and face caused by rosacea.  This condition may be totally unrelated to your first rhinoplasty.
The good news is that many of these conditions can be treated successfully.  If you can provide high resolution photographs of your nose, this can help make the diagnosis.

Sanjay Grover, MD, FACS · Answer

It would be very unusual for you to have swelling 20 years after surgery.  It is not uncommon to have some persistent mild swelling for one to two years folllowing rhinoplasty.  It is more likely that there is an anatomical issue that still bothers you. 
You should seek a consultation with a rhinoplasty specialist to further evaluate your nose and give you some advice.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Tara,
It is most unusual to have the swelling that you describe 20 years following rhinoplasty.  After rhinoplasty the normal course is that the nose becomes more refined and smaller as time goes by.
You should be examined by a rhinoplasty surgery specialist.  After your examination it will be much easier to answer your questions and address your concerns.  Choose your surgeon carefully.
Good luck and be well.
Dr. P

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The swelling in and around the nose and the visual changes on a day-to-day basis, have to do with fluid retention in the nasal tip.  Surgery will not correct this and will only make it worse.  Make sure  that you are on a low salt diet and that allergies are under control.  You do not need a revision rhinoplasty.

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Tara,
It is not likely that you still have swelling 20 years following Rhinoplasty surgery.  You may have sinus problems and you should see an otolaryngologist or plastic surgeon for an evaluation.  Good luck!

Solutions for Long-term Swelling After Rhinoplasty?

Answers (7)

Answer: Surgery will not correct this

Answer: Surgery will not correct this

Answer: Swelling not likely 20 years after Rhinoplasty

Answer: Swelling not likely 20 years after Rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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Solutions for Long-term Swelling After Rhinoplasty?

Answers (7)

Answer: Surgery will not correct this

Answer: Surgery will not correct this

Answer: Swelling not likely 20 years after Rhinoplasty

Answer: Swelling not likely 20 years after Rhinoplasty

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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