4 Month Post Rhino, and Have Tip Swelling and Tender Columella. Usually a Quick Healer; Is This Normal? (photo)

Question

I had open Rhinoplasty 4 months ago. The tip of my nose is still a bit swollen and the columella is still very tender. My question is what is the expected recovery time for the columella to no longer hurt? In the photo you can see Im still swollen. I've always healed quickly from injuries so it was strange to me that Im still hurting at the incision site. Not hurting enough to need a pain killer but enough that when I take off my make up or sneeze and use a kleenex its uncomfortable.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Generally speaking, it can take 6 to 12 months to completely heal after surgery. Please stay in touch with your surgeon or his/her clinical team to discuss your ongoing concerns.

Jonathan Weiler, MD · Answer

It is normal to have tip/dorsal swelling after a rhinoplasty for up to a year. The pain you are experiencing in your columella should be significantly less, I would advise you to follow up with your surgeon and discuss your tenderness and try and figure out what is the cause.

Michael L. Schwartz, MD · Answer

From your description it sounds like what you are experiencing is within the range of normal post op recovery. It's likely that swelling and sensitivity will continue to improve for another 8 - 12 months or so. Check with your surgeon about he/she feels your progress is doing. Good luck!

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Thanks for the animated posted photo, really not to helpful. I womder did your chosen rhinoplasty doc explain the healing times? In textbook discussions the FULL recovery time from a rhinoplasty could take a FULL YEAR. At 4 months much to early to not be having your issues. All more time and go back to youer chosen surgeon to discuss.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is difficult to predict when the sensitvity from your rhinoplasty surgery will improve. It varies from patient to patient. The swelling can take up to a year or more.

4 Month Post Rhino, and Have Tip Swelling and Tender Columella. Usually a Quick Healer; Is This Normal? (photo)

Answers (8)