5 years post rhinoplasty - could my implant be infected? (photo)

Question

I'm a healthy 26 year old woman who lives a healthy active lifestyle and maintains my physical appearance. About 5 years ago I had a rhinoplasty. In surgery it was decided to use an implant in my nose, and now I am experiencing swelling, slight discoloration at the tip, and tingling. I immediately returned to the surgeon who did my nose. He says this is likely just an infection to a permanent stitch. I'm worried the implant itself might be infected. What are your thoughts?

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I would try some oral antibiotics for starters. That should cool the inflammation down. But if it recurs after several tries of antibiotics the implant may need to be removed

Selcuk Inanli, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question. As far as I can see from your photos, you might need to consult your doctor about it because without face to face consultation is is very difficult to make a proper evaluation. Best Regards!

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @julietdahli, thank you for your question. It is strange that these types of implants become infected without showing more generalized symptoms. You should undergo an ecography test to examine the soft tissues, and you should see a specialist who can diagnose what is occurring and follow the instructions of your otolaryngologist. A complete blood test can also be ordered to determine whether an infection is present. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Celal Alioglu, MD · Answer

Hello you don not have enough cartilage that is why we will need to use cartilage from your rib or rib

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
From your photograph, I note an area of redness surrounding  a small elevated "bump" located at the midline of your nasal tip.
Your history of nasal implant surgery 6 years ago does raise the index of suspicion regarding implant infection, but, after a physical examination, your surgeon does not necessarily think this is the case. Your surgeon had the ability to examine your internal nasal cavity.
Antibiotic coverage may be indicated. A follow up visit is recommended in a week if it does not resolve or sooner if there is any progression.   It is too early to tell if this is an infected permanent suture vs. implant infection.
Best wishes...

5 years post rhinoplasty - could my implant be infected? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Infected nasal implant?

Answer: Infected nasal implant?

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5 years post rhinoplasty - could my implant be infected? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Infected nasal implant?

Answer: Infected nasal implant?

Browse related questions

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.