Uneven Swelling 6 Months Post Op Rhinoplasty? (photo)

Question

I had closed rhinoplasty about 6 months ago but the result is still uneven. In 3 times follow up after surgery, I have consulted with the doctor and he just simply said that I have thick skin and all the swollen will resolve in 1.5 to 2 years. But I concern that the uneven swollen will be permanent cause when I touch the area it feels hard. I am an asian male to female trans woman. Got rhinoplasty to make the nose look smaller more feminine. I dont know if this information would help.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Swelling is rarely symmetric, and in thicker skinned patients such as yourself I would wait another year before making any decisions on revisions. You result as it is now is good. Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

John M. Hilinski, MD · Answer

First, you have to be realistic about what rhinoplasty surgery can achieve. You will never have a perfectly symmetrical nose given human nature. The goal in every rhinoplasty is for improvement. That being said, you will see asymmetric swelling of the nose for upwards of one year after rhinoplasty surgery. Keep this in mind as you heal. In some cases, steroid injections can be used to help mold the healing process and address unwanted swelling. Check with your rhinoplasty surgeon about this option. Happy healing.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

The Asian nose in the picture demonstrates thickness of tissue in the tip illustrative of the ethnic nose. In patients with thicker skin the swelling will persist longer. How long varies from patient to patient. Keep in touch with your surgeon and the patient.

Uneven Swelling 6 Months Post Op Rhinoplasty? (photo)

Answers (3)