Is it possible for the wings or alar to remain swollen after 3 months?

Question

Please forgive my English I was wondering if the skin between the ala crease and nostrils (called wings I think) might still be swollen after 3 months of open septorhinoplasty and alarplasty considering it was very thick last 2 months and decreased incredibly

Brian M. Harmych, MD, FACS · Answer

At three months, there is undoubtedly some residual swelling as it takes up to a full year, and sometimes longer, for all of the swelling to resolve after rhinoplasty. Keep in mind that frequent follow up appointments with your surgeon during the year following surgery is very important. Only your surgeon will be able to determine what changes are due to swelling versus a postoperative healing problem. Thanks for sharing your question and good luck!-Dr. Harmych

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Swelling after rhinoplasty can take a year and sometimes longer to settle. Best of luck with your results.

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Great question.  Swelling after rhinoplasty can last for quite a while.  Although most of the swelling resolves within the first 3-6 months, some of the swelling remains for even up to a year.  One of the best ways to monitor this process is to take weekly photos at the same time of the day in the same type of lighting.  When you go through these photos you can prove to yourself that either swelling continues to improve or the process has stabilized.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Michael Bublik, MD · Answer

Thank  you for your question.  Swelling depends on numerous factors, including skin thickness, amount of dissection done and extent of skin excision (in the case of alar reduction) and can take months for it to subside.  I would have regular follow up by your plastic surgeons to see if steroid injections or massage may help. As you may know, most swelling takes up to 1 year to subside.  Good luck, Dr. Bublik.

Is it possible for the wings or alar to remain swollen after 3 months?

Answers (4)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

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Is it possible for the wings or alar to remain swollen after 3 months?

Answers (4)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

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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.