Persistent Redness After Rhinoplasty: Causes and Solutions

Redness of the nasal tip after rhinoplasty?

Hello Dr.
Lu: I previously underwent rhinoplasty, which resulted in inflammation.
After removing the implant and resting for a few months, I had the procedure redone.
However, due to the previous inflammation, the skin on my nose has become thinner and feels very tight.
It has been five months since the revision surgery, and the tip of my nose remains red.
I returned to the original hospital for a follow-up, and they said it is due to the tightness of the skin and the height of the augmentation, which is causing pressure and resulting in the redness at the tip.
I would like to ask if this explanation is correct.
The hospital also mentioned that the redness caused by pressure could take 1 to 2 years to resolve! (Currently, there is no discharge from my nose.) Dr.
Lu, do you think it is possible that I am experiencing inflammation?

oo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/05/21

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery

Inflammation can lead to progressively worsening symptoms, and redness after revision surgery is a common phenomenon.
If there is no improvement observed after six months to one year, consideration may be given to implanting autologous tissue to thicken the nasal tip.

Reply Date: 2015/05/21

More Info

Persistent redness after rhinoplasty can be a concerning issue for many patients, especially when it follows a history of complications such as inflammation and skin thinning. In your case, the redness at the tip of your nose five months post-surgery could be attributed to several factors, including inflammation, skin tension, and possibly psychological stress.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that the healing process after rhinoplasty can vary significantly from person to person. The skin on the nose is particularly delicate, and if it has been subjected to inflammation or trauma, it may take longer to heal. Inflammation can lead to increased blood flow to the area, resulting in redness. If your skin is thin and tight due to previous surgeries, this could exacerbate the appearance of redness, as there is less tissue to diffuse the underlying vascularity.

The assertion from your medical team that stress could contribute to the persistent redness is not unfounded. Stress can have various physiological effects on the body, including increased blood pressure and changes in skin perfusion. While it may not be the primary cause of your symptoms, it can certainly play a role in how your body responds to healing. The idea that the redness could take 1-2 years to resolve is also plausible, especially if the skin is under tension and has a history of inflammation.

However, it is crucial to differentiate between normal post-operative changes and signs of ongoing inflammation or complications. If there is no discharge or other signs of infection, it may suggest that the redness is more related to the healing process rather than an active infection. Nonetheless, if the redness persists or worsens, it would be advisable to seek further evaluation.
In cases where the skin remains thin and tight, some surgeons may recommend procedures to enhance the thickness of the skin, such as fat grafting or the use of dermal fillers. These options can help improve the appearance of the nose and may alleviate some of the tension that contributes to the redness.

Additionally, proper skincare and management of the surgical site can play a significant role in recovery. Using gentle, non-irritating products and protecting the area from sun exposure can help promote healing. If you are concerned about the redness, consulting with a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty may provide you with tailored advice and treatment options.

In summary, while the redness you are experiencing could be attributed to a combination of factors, including skin tension and stress, it is essential to monitor the situation closely. If there are no signs of infection and the redness does not improve over time, further intervention may be necessary. Always feel empowered to seek a second opinion if you feel uncertain about the advice you are receiving. Your comfort and satisfaction with your surgical outcome are paramount.

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