Still Not Breathing Comfortably Almost 2 Months Post-op Rhinoplasty?

Question

its been 2 months and icant breathe through my nose comfortably. I find if i clean it out COMPLETELY (Which takes FOREVER) then i can kind of breathe through it comfortably but this never lasts long since in a few hours its stuffed up again. and the mucus in my nose is clear but very sticky which makes it hard to completely clear out. is this normal? ive read on many websites that you should be breathng properly by 2 months for sure, but that doesnt seem to be the case with me.

George T. Boris, MD, FRCS · Answer

Some patients take longer than others during the healing process. If you have any concerns see you Dr so he can examine you to reassure you everything is fine. Congrats on the surgery. Enjoy

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Even two months out from a rhinoplasty there is persistent swelling. However breathing should be substantially recovered. You should have your surgeon examine you nose to see if there is some other issue or some other potential treatment.

Richard J. Brown, MD · Answer

Well everyone is different so it may just be that you personally still have a lot of congestion and swelling. Best thing is to see your surgeon and have them look inside to make sure nothing else is going on anatomically. Patients can be very stuffy for months.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

The nose can be extremely sensitive after a rhinoplasty and it takes some time for the interanl swelling to subside.  You may want to check with your plastic surgeon for any further advice.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

First, the feeling of adequate breathing through ones nose is variable and there are many things that can contribute to the sensation of difficulty breathing. One is swelling after surgery, which is very common.

Still Not Breathing Comfortably Almost 2 Months Post-op Rhinoplasty?

Answers (7)