Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, can produce stunning results and improve the appearance and functionality of the nose. However, like any surgery, it does carry potential side effects. While some rhinoplasty side effects are temporary and common after surgery, other symptoms may be less common and require additional treatment. Here’s what you need to know about both the common and unusual side effects of rhinoplasty, including how to treat these effects, how to avoid complications, and when to call your surgeon.
What Side Effects Are More Common With Rhinoplasty?
Some rhinoplasty patients will experience a few well-known, common side effects as their nose adapts to its new shape and begins to heal post-surgery. These nose job side effects are part of the normal healing process. Your surgeon will provide tips and specific treatments to help reduce any discomfort or swelling you experience. More common side effects include:- Swelling And Bruising: Temporary swelling and bruising around your nose and under your eyes are likely after rhinoplasty, often peaking within the first few days and gradually improving over several weeks.
- Nasal Congestion: You may experience congestion due to swelling in the nasal passages, which may last for several days to weeks.
- Minor Bleeding: A little bleeding after surgery is normal, especially in the first few days, so don’t panic if there’s some blood the first week or so after rhinoplasty.
- Numbness: You may experience sensation changes or numbness at the tip of your nose or around the surgical area due to nerve disruption. This is generally temporary, with many cases resolving in a few months post-surgery.
What Are The More Unusual Side Effects And Risks Of Rhinoplasty?
While many side effects of rhinoplasty are predictable, a few uncommon side effects can occur in certain patients. Knowing what these are can help you spot signs of the long-term effects of rhinoplasty and possible complications that lead to a follow-up appointment with your surgeon. Here are a few of the less common rhinoplasty side effects:- Septal Perforation: A septal perforation is a small hole that can form in the nasal septum, often due to surgical complications or the healing process. It can lead to crusting, pain, discharge, and whistling sounds while breathing.
- Prolonged Swelling Or Asymmetry: A portion of your post-op swelling should resolve in the first several weeks. At this point, the remaining swelling will be much less noticeable and will continue to fade gradually.In rare cases, swelling may persist longer or appear uneven. Significant, lasting swelling could indicate issues like scar tissue buildup or internal structural problems after rhinoplasty.
- Difficulty Breathing Or Blocked Airways: Though uncommon, some patients may experience difficulty breathing or the feeling of blocked nasal airways. This could be a sign of complications like nasal valve collapse or septal deviation, which may require a second procedure to resolve the issues (revision rhinoplasty).
- Changes In Skin Sensitivity Or Smell: Some people notice heightened skin sensitivity or numbness after surgery. In rare cases, patients have reported changes in their sense of smell. Surgery can affect nerve endings; however, this is typically temporary and improves over time.
- Nasal Scarring: Most rhinoplasty scars are minimal and well hidden, but some patients may experience more visible scarring. Though it’s rare, this may include keloid or hypertrophic scars, which are more prominent and may require specific treatments to minimize.
How To Treat Rhinoplasty Side Effects
Your treatment options will depend on the side effects you’re experiencing and their severity. Here are some general ways to treat rhinoplasty side effects:- Apply a cold compress to help with swelling in the first few days after surgery. Sleeping with your head elevated also reduces swelling and bruising.
- Saline sprays and gentle nasal rinses can relieve congestion. If you have breathing issues, contact your surgeon to see what they recommend.
- You may be able to treat small septal perforations with moisturizing ointments or nasal sprays. Your surgeon may need to correct larger perforations.
- Silicone-based scar treatments or laser therapies can be helpful in managing scar tissue development.
- Sensitivity and numbness usually improve with time. If these conditions continue, your surgeon might suggest nerve stimulation therapies or specific medications.
When To Call Your Surgeon
After rhinoplasty, keep in close communication with your surgeon. You should contact them if you experience any of the following:- Severe or worsening pain that doesn’t subside with prescribed medication
- Excessive bleeding beyond the first few days or bleeding that gets worse
- Signs of infection, such as fever, redness spreading around the nose, or unusual nasal discharge
- Difficulty breathing that interferes with daily life
- Unusual or asymmetrical swelling that doesn’t improve after a few weeks
What’s The Best Way To Avoid Rhinoplasty Complications?
Prevention is key to avoiding rhinoplasty complications and experiencing smooth healing. These rhinoplasty tips may help minimize your risk of side effects and complications.- Choose An Experienced Surgeon: Expertise matters in cosmetic surgery, especially for something as delicate as rhinoplasty. Look for a board-certified surgeon with extensive experience in rhinoplasty to greatly reduce your risk of surgical complications.
- Follow Post-Operative Care Instructions: Carefully follow any aftercare instructions your surgeon gives you. These might include guidelines for cleaning your nose, taking medications, activity restrictions, and tips for managing swelling.
- Be Patient With Your Recovery: Healing is a process, so give yourself time to rest and recover. Avoid strenuous activities and be gentle with your (sensitive) nose for several weeks post-surgery.
- Stay Healthy: A strong immune system supports healing. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest all help your body recover more effectively.
- Avoid Smoking And Alcohol: These can interfere with healing and may increase your risk of swelling, bruising, and bleeding.
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