Post-Surgery Observations

4 Months Post-Op Update:

I am currently four months post-surgery and have noticed several changes since the initial swelling subsided. I can now see an indent on the left side of my nose and a mild bump on the supra tip, which I am addressing daily through massage as per the provided instructions. Additionally, the tip of my nose appears uneven, resembling bossae.

I understand that swelling can significantly influence the appearance of surgical results, and my nose has undergone a considerable reduction in size. Recognizing that adjustments and healing are part of the process, I am giving it more time to see the final outcome.

8 months post op update:

It’s been eight months since my surgery, and I’ve noticed the swelling continues to decrease. The indent is still there, and I can definitely feel it. The bump near the tip of my nose has diminished but is still visible. What really concerns me is how flat and wide my nose looks from the front. My doctor has been great in addressing all my questions. I understand that healing takes time, and the size reduction in my nose was significant. I do have some insecurities about the front view, but I’m committed to giving it more time to fully heal and see the final outcome. However, I am starting to consider revision as a future option to address the shape of my nose if the indent and the shape don’t improve with time.

11 months post op update:

After giving it 11 months, the shape of my nose just wasn’t really giving what I hoped for. While there was some refinement, the overall shape just didn’t feel right to me, and I found it unattractive in my opinion. I became self-conscious, especially about how flat and wide my nose looked from the front, which made me uncomfortable taking pictures from certain angles or in certain lighting.

Initially, when the cast came off, I was actually happy. I wanted a smaller nose, and I was pleased to see that there was a significant reduction in size. Even though my cast-off nose was far from perfect, I thought the irregularities I noticed were just due to swelling. However, as time went on, I started disliking the shape of my nose more and more.

As I approached the one-year mark, I decided it was best to get a second opinion. During this process, I was informed that I had an inverted V deformity, among other considerations. After careful thought, I opted for a revision with a different surgeon. This was a personal decision based on my own feelings and experiences.

Writing this after my revision surgery, I can share that it was a lengthy, seven-hour procedure, during which my new surgeon needed to use rib cartilage to reconstruct my bridge. Now, it’s a matter of waiting to see how the healing process unfolds, as rhinoplasty, especially revision surgery, requires time to reveal the final results.

If you’re reading this, I imagine you’re considering rhinoplasty yourself. My advice would be to take your time researching, join support groups, speak with previous patients if possible, and keep an open mind. It’s important to understand that complications can occur, and revisions can sometimes be costly.

I want to express my appreciation for the support I received from the staff throughout my experience—Stephanie at reception and Nurse Julia were always quick to address my questions to the best of their knowledge. Ultimately, I felt that seeking a revision was the right choice for me to address my self-consciousness and regain confidence. This is simply my personal experience, and I hope it can help others on their journey.