4 Weeks Since Rhinoplasty. Black Eye Still Not Healed.

Question

4 weeks ago I had an open septorhinoplasty w/ 2 banked rib grafts. As expected, my bruising was severe on both eyes and also on the "laugh line" area of my cheeks. As of today, a 2-inch purple bruise remains under my eye. Is this normal or should I contact my surgeon?

	Notes: -I did not take any herbs like Arnica for this surgery -My pain went away on Day 4 -This is my 2nd surgery, 1st was a septoplasty in 2004, no grafts, Arnica before surgery, bruising lasted 10 days

	Thanks Docs!

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Choc,

	Contact your surgeon if you are concerned about your persistent bruising.  You may try warm compresses in the area to help dissolve the bruise.  Good luck and be well.

	Dr. P

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, of course, if you are concerned, let your surgeon know, and perhaps schedule follow up appointment for evaluation. It is easily possible after four weeks to still have some discoloration, but by six weeks, this generally resolves.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

It sounds like you had extensive surgery for nasal reconstruction.  With more extensive surgery comes more swelling and bruising.  Bruising represents small particles of blood beneath the skin and our body resolves the bruising by sending out certain cells to "clean it up".   It may be that the bruising will take longer to resolve since it there was much more of it this time.  See your surgeon.

	Good luck

	Dr. ES

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

Although unusual, black eyes 4 weeks after rhinoplasty is possible. In 35 years, I've never seen this persist - be patient. Contact your surgeon whenever you have concerns or questions.

4 Weeks Since Rhinoplasty. Black Eye Still Not Healed.

Answers (4)