Long term effects of rhinoplasty?

Question

I've been reading about how patients who had rhinoplasty done 10 or 20 years ago can later suffer "shrinkage" of the surrounding tissues, which results in a pinched look and breathing difficulties, is this long term risk very common with rhinoplasty? Or are these just cases where too much cartilage was removed?

Elias G. Gikas, MD · Answer

This is not common, but it can happen from loss of support of the soft tissue/skin which is a result of overresection of the cartilage framework.  If the framework is also weak, scar contracture can create these problems.

Andres G. Sarraga, MD, FACS · Answer

As rhinoplasty surgery has evolved and changed rhinoplasty surgeons have become more cautious and now perform less agressive resections than many years ago. The so called "shrinkages" and pinched looks are usually a result of over-resections and they are challenging to fix. In my practice i see this in patients who've had surgery from non-rhinoplasty surgeons or from surgeries from decades ago.

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

In the hands of an artistic plastic surgeon with extensive experience in performing rhinoplasties, the vast majority of patients are pleased with their results, even 20 years later and do not need or desire further nasal procedures.Robert Singer, MD  FACSLa Jolla, California

Michael T. Somenek, MD · Answer

This is a great question. However, the answer is not always straightforward.  I frequently see patients that have had rhinoplasty that far out with the pinched look and breathing difficulties. The etiology for this problem can range from over-resection of much of the cartilaginous tissues providing support to the nose or the effects of scar contracture. I would say more frequently it is the loss of support from over resection of the tissues that leads to this problem. The goal of a rhinoplasty should be to preserve as much of the support structures to the nose as possible while at the same time creating a refined and harmonious appearance to your face.  Keep this in mind when seeking consultation with a rhinoplasty specialist. Good luck.

Jay M. Pensler, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

The is always swelling after a rhinoplasty which resolves with time.There are also a number of long term changes which develop slowly with time.It really depend what is done at surgery and how the patient heals. A rhinoplasty is difficult to perform and experience is the key. to good results.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

I feel that shrinkage is possible if too much tissue was removed during the rhinoplasty surgery. I have many 20+ year results but have never seen this happen.

Long term effects of rhinoplasty?

Answers (6)

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