Flared nostrils that show more after rhinoplasty (Photo)

Question

I am 6 weeks post rhinoplasty and I am concerned about the size and shape of my nostrils. They are much more noticeable now. Will this get better over the next few months or should I expect this as part of my final results? See pics for side by side comparison.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

It's still too soon to tell what your final results will be. You need to have patience with your body as it begins to heal. The skin, bone and cartilage are all traumatized during surgery. Inflammation (swelling) is the normal response and will help your nose to heal and look beautiful in the end. If, one year from now, you are unhappy with your nose, then that is the time to think about a revision procedure. Right now, concentrate on other things you like to do and let your nose take its time to heal. I hope this helps.

P. Daniel Ward, MD · Answer

thank you for your question. This is a common concern that many patients have. In your case, at six weeks after rhinoplasty, most of the issues that you describe  are likely related to swelling.  Stay in close touch with your surgeon to find out what steps you can take to help improve the situation. You may be a candidate for steroid or 5-FU injections. Your surgeon may also recommend some massage techniques to help decrease the swelling. Hang in there. It looks like it is going to improve!

Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS · Answer

You have to give yourself some more healing time.  Your nose and surrounding areas are going to be swollen for a while and you should be consulting the surgeon that performed the procedure but give yourself some time before going back in so some of it can subside. It can take up to a year for final results.
Sincerely,
Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

R. Laurence Berkowitz, MD · Answer

There are a number of things responsible for this appearance.  Most notably your nose is considerably narrower so of course the nostrils appear disproportionately wider.  In addition, reduction of the tip can result in the nostril rims retracting and can add to this appearance.  I agree with my colleagues that at 6 weeks only 60 to 80% of the edema has resolved and one year is required for full resolution with thinner skin such as yours

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