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Why Does the Nose Look Shiny and Un-natural After Rhinoplasty?

I've noticed on some people the nose looks really shiny after there rhinoplasty. Almost looks like plastic. What is the reason for some people to end up with a really shiny nose?

Doctor Answers 4

Shiny Nose after Rhinoplasty

February 13th, 2013
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Oily skin post rhinoplasty is common. This can subside after 4-6 months, but it can last upwards of one year post-op. Changes in the texture of your skin are normal. Secretions can occur after rhinoplasty because your blood circulation has been modified since the procedure and swelling occurs. You might also experience an excess of oil on the nose as the sebaceous glands have been disturbed due to the procedure.

Carlo P. Honrado, MD, FACS


Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 10 reviews

Shiny Unnatural Look After Rhinoplasty

January 3rd, 2013
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You can sometimes see this type of change when the nose is puffy and swollen following rhinoplasty surgery. This will usually subside after the first 10-14 days as the swelling settles down.

Web reference: http://www.drhilinski.com

John M. Hilinski, MD

John M. Hilinski, MD
San Diego Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.7 out of 5 stars 32 reviews

Shiny nose after rhinoplasty

January 3rd, 2013
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The nose is often swollen and shiny because of the swelling and reaction to healing. It gets better with time.

Steven Wallach, MD

Steven Wallach, MD
New York Plastic Surgeon
4.1 out of 5 stars 23 reviews

Shiny Nose after Rhinoplasty

January 2nd, 2013
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    Examples would help.  This may be due to thin skin, aggressive defatting, multiple procedures, multiple grafts, stage in healing.  I cannot say that I noticed any of the hundreds I have done becoming shiny.

Kenneth B. Hughes, MD

Kenneth B. Hughes, MD
Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 439 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.