Post rhinoplasty swelling. Can menstruation cause swelling to return?

Question

I'm 17 days post op. The large amount of swelling on my bridge area has gradually improved. I've been conscientious, eating a low salt diet, taping at night, sleeping upright, etc. Yesterday morning I found my nose very puffy again - I had thus far been retaining the more swelling on the right side of the bridge/cheek, now the left is worse! My period started yesterday (a week late, delayed I believe by the antibiotics). Can menstruation cause swelling to return?

Anup Dhir, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Swelling post rhinoplasty is common and take months to settle. Some women have fluid retention just before menstruation,  and can feel puffy. But specifically swelling in the nose should not be related to it.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

It is not uncommon to experience swelling for weeks to months following Rhinoplasty surgery.  The swelling should not be related to your cycles.

Juris Bunkis, MD, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

17 days after surgery, you should be directing your questions to your surgeon!    But in general, it is normal to have swelling that fluctuates for weeks, months after a rhinoplasty and you will not see your final result for six months!   In the meantime, eat what you would normally eat, do what you would normally do, don't bother taping or icing your nose.    Your menses was probably delayed by the anesthetic   Just lead a normal life and the nose will heal over time.

Post rhinoplasty swelling. Can menstruation cause swelling to return?

Answers (3)