Upper Lip Severely Swollen After Nose Tip Rhinoplasty? (photo)

Lip swelling can occur after rhinoplasty surgery, particularly if a significant amount of dissection was performed.  In general swelling following any surgery is greatest approximately 3 days following the procedure and then should begin to resolve.  You should have an examination though by your surgeon if it does not begin to improve.  Swelling that persists or is associated with redness and severe tenderness could indicate an infection, although this is an uncommon situation it should be treated early if it does occur.

Generally speaking, it can take 6 to 12 months to completely heal after surgery. Please keep in touch with your surgeon or his/her clinical team to discuss your ongoing concerns.

Since your face just underwent a major cosmetic surgery, it's very common to experience facial swelling near the incision site. Because of the location of the nose in relation to the mouth, it is normal for lips to swell for an initial period of time after a rhinoplasty. Over the next couple of weeks, any lip swelling you're experiencing should reside, though it's important to remember that nasal swelling after a rhinoplasty can last up to two years. If you're overly concerned, I recommend following up with your surgeon.

     If extensive tip work was performed and you are 4 days after rhinoplasty, swelling in the area and of the lip is not unusual.  You should see your plastic surgeon for an exam to determine if there is anything else occurring here.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Swelling in lip after rhinoplasty is common. Give it time to settle down this is very common.  Good luck.

Take a deep breath and relax. Lip swelling after rhinoplasty in entirely normal. You should start to see a decrease in this over the next week. Remember to keep your head elevated when you are recumbent and avoid any strenuous activity for another couple of weeks.

Diana L. Elias MD