Is This Swelling or Have my Bones Set Like This?

Question

i had a first closed rhinoplasty 6 weeks ago to remove a small hump on bridge of my nose, and also narrowing of nasal bones and had work done to change shape of tip.When my cast was removed my nose was wider than before surgery i emailed my surgeon who says it is swelling but im not so sure its been six weeks since surgery and this swelling as not reduced at all,do you think this is swelling or the way my bones have set? I had surgery abroad so not seen surgeon since surgery.

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question!

It is understandable that you are
concerned. Changes after rhinoplasties vary with
every patient and what you are experiencing is normal especially that swelling
takes time to subside as it masks the results of your surgery.

It is important to keep in mind that it
is early to pass a judgment. Usually, a year is required before formulating how
your nose will be, but longer with a thick skin. Even then, your nose will keep
shaping itself to complement your face for better results in the years to come.

My best recommendation at the moment is
to be patient, allow nature to take its course and edema subsides for better
results. There is no doubt that once the swelling resolves, more definition and
shape will be achieved and you should be happier with the results.

Also, it is important that you keep
communicating with your surgeon and work as a team together to achieve the best
results possible.

Congratulations on your surgery and remain positive!

Ali Sajjadian, MD FACS

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

At six weeks this could still be swelling. Occasionally, a small injection of cortisone could help reduce this. However, at three months post-op, if the swelling still exists, it may require repeat ostiotomies in order to narrow the bones.

Ran Y. Rubinstein, MD · Answer

Is your nose swollen vs. overly wide after hump reduction?

	
		You will have to wait at least 3 months to answer this question.
	
		I do not believe nasal exercises are necessary to bring down swelling or narrow your nose.
	
		Consult with a local plastic surgeon in about 6 weeks, the 3 month mark.

John M. Hilinski, MD · Answer

Without examining you in person and feeling this area it is a little difficult to give you a definitive answer. In some cases like this I have my San Diego rhinoplasty patients apply pressure on their nasal bones to alter the position. These digital exercises need to be dictated by your rhinoplasty surgeon. To learn more about why we do this following osteotomies during rhinoplasty, take a look at our online rhinoplasty tutorial at drhilinski.com.

Ernesto Hayn, MD · Answer

Mr. Massi,

	Without a physical exam it is hard to say but it appears that you have a collection of either serious fluid or blood.  Either way It is imperative that you see a plastic surgeon as soon as possible to determine which therapy is recommended for you.  The healing process post rhinoplasty is very important and any deviation from the norm can alter the final appearance of the surgery.  So treatment for the area that is "swollen" is imperative.

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Is This Swelling or Have my Bones Set Like This?

Answers (9)

Answer: Nasal Bone Shape After Cosmetic Rhinoplasty

Answer: Nasal Bone Shape After Cosmetic Rhinoplasty

Answer: Swelling vs bone healing

Answer: Swelling vs bone healing

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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.