Is swelling normal after 17 months post op? (Photo)

Question

I had a Tip plasty done 17 months ago. To this day my nose still feels stiff, it does not hurt, but feels like it’s swollen. I went to see my doctor 2 months ago and he said everything seem fine and all was normal, but now I can see a bump on my left supratip. I also wanted to add, I got pregnant 4 months after getting the procedure done. Is this all normal? Would a steroid shot help?

Selcuk Inanli, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question.
As far as I can see from your photos after 6 months, bumps that does not go away is permanent. I definitely recommend a revision operation, it is possible to have a more harmonious and elegant nose with a single operation.
It would be better face to face consultation.
Best Regards!

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Additionally, if you have swelling in your supratip, that is a good location for a steroid injection, if your fullness is indeed swelling. If it feels hard like cartilage, it may not be swelling. Since you appear to be getting conflicting information from your surgeon, please consider meeting with another reputable rhinoplasty specialist. Thank you for your question. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. It can still be normal to be swollen at 17 months even. However, based on your photographs, you may benefit from a Revision to fix your tip asymmetry and over projection of the tip. 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

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Experiencing stiffness and a swollen feeling in the nose 17 months after a tip plasty can sometimes occur, as healing and tissue remodeling can take time. The bump on the left supratip could be due to scar tissue, residual swelling, or changes in the nasal structure post-surgery. Pregnancy can also affect healing due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume, potentially contributing to swelling.

A steroid injection may help reduce localized inflammation and swelling, but this decision should be made in consultation with your surgeon, who can assess the specific situation. It's essential to follow your doctor's advice and have a thorough evaluation to determine the best course of action.

Todd Christopher Hobgood, MD · Answer

Most swelling after rhinoplasty dissipates within 3 to 4 weeks post-op, but it can take up to 1 to 2 years for swelling to go away completely, especially in the nasal tip. Remember, healing takes time, and everyone’s recovery differs, especially when factors like pregnancy are involved. I suggest scheduling an additional follow-up visit with your surgeon to evaluate your healing and determine whether a steroid shot or other intervention is necessary. If you’re still concerned, you can seek a second opinion from a board-certified facial plastic surgeon in your area.

Be well,
Dr. Todd. Hobgood

Be well,
Dr. Todd. Hobgood

Is swelling normal after 17 months post op? (Photo)

Answers (5)

More Rhinoplasty Questions

Can I try silicone scar sheets for internal incision scars? (Photo)

Nose shadow - is my nose crooked/deviated? Would surgery fix this? (Photo)

Is there a procedure that would reduce my nostrils while also shortening the appearance of my midface? (photo)

Will side rasping make my open roof deformity worse? (Photo)

Bifid Nose - OR time + question about temp filler fix? (Photo)

What can be done to make my hanging columella less noticeable while not creating more space between my nose and mouth? (photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS