Rhinoplasty Complications

Nowadays, reality TV shows like Dr. 90210 give the illusion that rhinoplasty is an easy and relatively risk-free procedure. In reality, rhinoplasty is the most complicated cosmetic procedure there is. On the outside, the nose may look rather simple, but inside it’s a totally different story; there are dozens of different parts! To further complicate matters, the cartilage found within the nose can be very unpredictable once it has been altered.

If you’re considering a nose job, you need to be aware of these possible rhinoplasty complications:

Extensive Swelling

Most patients don’t understand just how long the swelling will last. With closed rhinoplasty, residual swelling can easily last up to 9 months, possibly longer. When it comes to the more invasive open rhinoplasty technique, it has been known to last up to 36 months! Here are some rhinoplasty swelling pictures so you can see this for yourself.

Nasal Tip Deformities

Visit any of the online rhinoplasty forums, and you will discover the most common post-op complication is a deformed nasal tip. There are several things which can trigger this problem. First of all, the altered cartilage inside may bend, warp, or shift after the plastic surgery. Due to the residual swelling, this may not become visible for up to one or two years post-op. Secondly, with open rhinoplasty, the nasal skin sometimes will become thinner following rhinoplasty – this can cause the underlying cartilage grafts to become visible. Another frequent complaint is the nasal tip ending up too high or low. For all of these problems, unfortunately a revision rhinoplasty will be needed in order to correct them.

Turbinate Reduction Problems

For allergy sufferers, a common “upsell” rhinoplasty surgeons like to push is turbinate reduction surgery. The turbinates are scrolled, spongy bone tissue found within the nasal cavity. When they are irritated, sometimes they will become swollen. Initially, plastic surgeons thought it would be a good idea to simply remove them via turbinate reduction surgery (which is done in conjunction with rhinoplasty). In theory this sounds like a great idea, but the turbinates are an important part of the respiratory system; they help filter, heat, and humidify the air you breathe in. Now, many are starting to learn about the unfortunate serious side effects which can accompany turbinate reduction surgery.

These are just a few of the possible complications which can occur after rhinoplasty surgery. This is why it’s so important only to consult board certified plastic surgeons that have years of experience with this procedure. Rhinoplasty forums can be a good place to learn about these topics, but keep in mind that any information found on a message board should not be misconstrued as medical advice.

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