Septoplasty ..swelling? Does this take a few months to finally subside?

Through an open approach, swelling will result both inside the nose and outside the nose. Typically you will see an improvement in your breathing in 3-4 weeks. The swelling of the outside of your nose, especially the tip, may take much longer. Follow up closely with your surgeon to ensure you are healing appropriately.

Nasal breathing after revision open septoplasty surgery may improve gradually over time, largely due to prolonged swelling. A revision procedure or an open procedure alone both have more swelling, as compared to primary surgery or closed procedure. As a result, plastic surgeons will typically advise to wait several weeks or months. Using saline spray, ointment, or other medication as needed can help reduce swelling and keep the nose moist. Sometimes your plastic surgeon can clean the nose of crusts and mucous which can help nasal breahting.Speak with your septoplasty surgeon to review options at this time. Best,Dr. Chaboki

Dear Debbiejpz, Typically with most septoplasty surgeries I address the turbinates to help ensure the patient has proper function after surgery. I would see your surgeon for an examination and he/she can best tell you where you are in the recovery phase and give you an idea of time for your swelling to dissipate. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.