Can my nose suddenly change shape 1.5 years after rhinoplasty? This week a bump of cartilage formed on the right side (photo)

Question

I had a rhinoplasty in march of 2016. The only problem after was on the left side of the tip the cartilage sticks out in a bump. It is hard to tell in the picture but there is a small pale/white area that shows the cartilage is pushing against my skin. Ive also noticed a crease at the tip, going through the middle of my nostrils it looking more and more prominent. Is it possible after ALL this time my nose can all of a sudden change?

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is possible that your nose changes in the time immediately after the 12 months after surgery. I suggest that you consult with your board certified facial plastic surgeon to learn more about your healing and recovery process.
Best wishes,

Deepak Raj Dugar, MD · Answer

Hello,Swelling usually takes 1-3 years to fully dissipate. Irregularities during the healing stages can happen. If you are unhappy with the healing process, consult with your board certified plastic surgeon for ways to fix it.Best of luck,Deepak Dugar, MDScarless Rhinoplasty ExpertBeverly Hills, CA 90210

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Yes this can happen as scarring bends the tip cartilage. This can be corrected by your surgeon as well as removal of your hanging columella.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear rachelheimann,it is impossible to tell without an examination. I would suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon or another board-certified plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

R. Laurence Berkowitz, MD · Answer

Nothing stays the same. As swelling resolves and tissues thin over time, tip asymmetry may need to be addressed. Over the years all noses change as we lose fat from our face even the thin protective layer in the nose.  Rhinoplasties are subject to this same phenomenon.  Do not despair, your surgeon appears quite adept at rhinoplasty and will help you address this

Can my nose suddenly change shape 1.5 years after rhinoplasty? This week a bump of cartilage formed on the right side (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Bump after rhinoplasty

Answer: Bump after rhinoplasty

Answer: Late rhinoplasty changes

Answer: Late rhinoplasty changes

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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Can my nose suddenly change shape 1.5 years after rhinoplasty? This week a bump of cartilage formed on the right side (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Bump after rhinoplasty

Answer: Bump after rhinoplasty

Answer: Late rhinoplasty changes

Answer: Late rhinoplasty changes

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.