Why is Nose Tip Hard After Rhinoplasty?

There can be many reasons why the tip of a nose feels hard after surgery. As everyone knows surgery causes swelling. In the case of a nose, this creates firmness. Of course this resolves with time. Secondary most times the delicate nasal cartilage is strengthened with surgery. This is due to adding cartilage as a graft. Cartilage usually from deep within your nose is transplanted along the columella, the fleshy strip between the nostrils to better support the tip. Other times the cartilage is placed over the tip itself to alter its shape. And finally the tip skin is numb from the surgery for several months and this can alter the sensation of hardness itself.

It’s not unusual for patients undergoing rhinoplasty to have prolonged swelling.  Several factors including the use of open rhinoplasty, fracture of the nasal bones, thickness of the nasal skin and a previous rhinoplasty have been associated with prolonged swelling.
            When nasal swelling is present the nose often feels hard and stiff.  Most patients note significant swelling for about two to three weeks following surgery.  After two weeks, most patients are comfortable resuming their normal lives and going out in public.

            Swelling will persist in most patients for at least one year following surgery, with the nasal tip being the last sit to experience resolution.  In the immediate post-operative period, nasal splints, elevation of the head and ice can be utilized to minimize swelling.  At this point in time, it’s important to be patient, this problem will gradually resolve with the passage of time.

It can take several weeks for the initial swelling to occur, then months for it to subside. Swelling in the tip generally takes the longest to subside, and it's generally this that is causing the hardness you're feeling. Please wait a few months before evaluating your results. Best of luck!

Nasal tip "hardness", swelling can be very normal after rhinoplasty.  This "hardness" represents swelling and internal healing.  This will improve "soften" as time passing and the healing is complete.  Your tip will become more flexible.

Dr. ES

Hi,

It often takes months for the tip of your nose to get back to feeling normal.  The "hardness" can be related to swelling and scar tissue that will resolve.  If grafting material was used in your nasal tip, it too contributes to hardness and stiffness.  You should be able to move the tip of your nose within a few months.

Enjoy your new nose and be well.

Dr. P