Too much columella show after rhinoplasty. 2 weeks post-op. (Photos)

Question

Ok two weeks post op, and I'm wondering if I still have a "hanging columella" . My tip was rotated and I understand I'm still extremely swollen but the columella is too low for my liking. Doesn't columella "shrink/retract" as swelling subsides? Also is it normal that one of my nostrils appears lower than the other? My surgeon is away on vacation and cannot discuss this with him. Thank you in advance.

Lisa Friederich, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Hi,Thanks for your question and pictures.
On looking at the lateral picture, your columella looks to be ok, but you do have columella show- I think this is due to alar retraction rather than a hanging columella. The front view is from too high an angle for me to make an assessment of the relationship between the columella and nostril rims. 
You will be swollen and this can affect the appearance of all components- discuss your concerns with your surgeon at your next visit and have them take clinical photographs. Is is best to allow time for swelling to settle before embarking on revision surgery!
Good luck

Jon Kurkjian, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.
With Rhinoplasty, the name of the game is patience. At one week, we would expect you to have quite a bit of swelling and bruising still noticeable. By the end of two weeks, typically, you will still be swollen but look more like you have a bad cold, rather than post surgical. Swelling can take up to a year to be completely gone, however, by 6 weeks you will look very good and should see big difference from your pre-op pics. So by looking at your photos, I encourage you to stay patient because from what I can see this is not considered abnormal.

Too much columella show after rhinoplasty. 2 weeks post-op. (Photos)

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Too much columella show after rhinoplasty. 2 weeks post-op. (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.