How can sudden breathing problems after 6 months post op happen?

Question

Hello, I’ve had my rhinoplasty in March this year. After 1 month I could breathe normally, this kept on till month 6/7. Suddenly I woke up with a clogged nose. I can still breathe but very bad compared to the first 5/6 months. How can this happen? I’ve went to 2 ents and they both said: your nose seems fine from the inside, and I’ve done an allergy test (there is a very low chance that I’m allergic to something). It’s like something is blocking the air. I make sounds while breathing.

Samuel Lin, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Nasal obstruction can occur from a host of reasons and may be due to environmental reasons, allergies, besides the structure of the nose (nasal cartilage, lining of the nose, bone) and so it is important to have a careful  examination of the inside of the nose to identify potenial causes..

Selcuk Inanli, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question. As far as I can understand from your question you might have stenosis inside your nose. It would be more convenient to decide with face-to-face consultation. Best Regards!

Thomas Spalla, MD · Answer

Questions that would help understand this better:  Is your obstruction constant or intermittent? Is it one side or both? What gives you ANY relief of the problem? Spray decongestants? pulling on your nose or cheek?
See your nasal surgeon as that person is most intimately associated with your nose and what exactly was surgically done.
If that doctor doesn't give an explanation and possible solution (which you may or may not like/agree to), then consult with a surgeon who is experienced in revision rhinoplasty as this surgeon will likely have faced similar situations.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

In the absence of nasal trauma, the only structure that could change inside your nose 6 months after surgery is the size of your turbinates. If you do an Afrin trial and breathe better, you could consider topical therapy like nasal saline and Flonase nasal spray, daily. Hope this helps! Dr Joseph

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @nosejob103, thank you for your question. After 12 months it is possible to evaluate what may have happened in the process. It can be associated with several factors related to the surgical technique used. The best course of action is to consult one or several board certified plastic surgeon for more information and options tailored specifically to your needs. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Go back to your surgeon. I’m sure looking inside the nose will immediately diagnose the issue. It’s likely something very simple.

How can sudden breathing problems after 6 months post op happen?

Answers (6)

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How can sudden breathing problems after 6 months post op happen?

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