Nose implant rejection after 30 years, redness in nose and major swelling, went away after meds but coming back again.

Question

I’ve had the rhinoplasty done about 30 years ago and about 1.5 months ago out of the blue, redness then swelling on nose. Took antibiotics it’s coming back, am told it’s implant rejection. Since it’s been that long, anyway to avoid surgery ? If surgery is the only issue would the shape of nose collapse as it’s been 30 yrs. Should I get new rhinoplasty again? Thanks in advance !

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. If you have a silicone or gortex implant in your nose that needs to be completely removed. This is a very frequent complication of these types of implants in the nose. With good surgical technique, you could have an outstanding result. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

Did you have a silicone implant placed on the top of the nose? It is likely that this can be removed and then your nose corrected with cartilage which will last another 100 years.

Nose implant rejection after 30 years, redness in nose and major swelling, went away after meds but coming back again.

Answers (2)