Strange lump inside nostril. Please help!

Question

I'm currently 7 months post rhinoplasty, but for the past week or so I've developed this strange white bump on my right nostril. It is white and hurts to the touch. I am able to breathe well but I've noticed it's gotten bigger. What do you think this might be or the reason why? Should I be concerned? I've also noticed my tip is changing some days it looks fuller than other days. Thank you!

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello !

It's difficult to determine the exact cause of the white bump on your nostril without a physical examination. However, it's possible that the bump may be an infection or a reaction to a suture or dissolvable stitch from your rhinoplasty surgery. It's best to consult with your plastic surgeon or an ENT specialist for an evaluation.

It's also normal to experience some changes in the appearance of your nose during the healing process. Swelling and fluctuations in the size and shape of the nasal tip are common, and it can take up to a year for the final results of your rhinoplasty to become apparent. However, if you have concerns about the appearance of your nose, it's best to discuss them with your plastic surgeon.

In summary, it's best to schedule an appointment with your plastic surgeon or an ENT specialist to have the white bump on your nostril evaluated. They can determine the cause of the bump and provide appropriate treatment if necessary. It's also a good opportunity to discuss any other concerns you have about the appearance of your nose with your surgeon.

Best of luck !

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If the white lump is soft, it could be a "Suture abscess". A suture abscess is when your body rejects a permanent suture that may have been used to reconstruct your nasal tip. Neither of these conditions should be something to worry about. Rather, it seems like a good idea to make a follow-up visit with your surgeon for evaluation and management. Hope this helps! Dr Joseph

Selcuk Inanli, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question.From the photos it is hard to say something for sure. But if it is hard and if it hurst you when you touch, it may be some cartilage. Please check with your surgeon.I don't know if your doctor used rib/or/ear cartilage to reshape the tip. I would need more information to make a proper evaluation.Best regards!

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Hi @Fierce4180. It would be difficult to determine the cause of the white bump in your nostril without an in person examination. This can be due to a suture, scar tissue, infection, etc. In addition, swelling of the tip is common. It can take up to one full year to see the final results of your rhinoplasty. I recommend calling your surgeon for an in person examination. Best of luck, Dr. Nima!

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hi there! I see what you're talking about. It's possible that it's suture that's poking through the skin. If that's the case, removal in clinic can easily be done. Less commonly. a piece of cartilage may be coming through. Lastly, a skin lesion like a milia may need to be extracted. It's important to revisit with your surgeon to evaluate what may be happening and avoid any infection. Hope this helps!

Strange lump inside nostril. Please help!

Answers (5)

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