Revisiting A Question About A Strange Nose Smell
I often review and answer many questions on RealSelf by real people from all over the country. Occasionally, I’ll encounter very interesting topics that I think my followers and/or patients may find useful. This question came from an individual in Arizona who was concerned about a strange smell which developed in her nose 1 full year after her Rhinoplasty surgery.
Strange smell in nose 1 year after rhinoplasty – what can I do?
Realself Question: I had Rhinoplasty done a year ago. Nov 2020. I have had a strange smell in my nose on one side since surgery. The smell is foul but not like death. It’s almost like wet dog smell? It doesn’t leak bad but it is a small leak from time to time and it definitely smells everyday all day. I am hoping this isn’t a CSF leak. What can I do? I’ve seen two different plastic surgeons about a revision and I spaced asking them about the scent/leak. They have looked and felt my nose.
My Answer: If you are smelling a persistent foul smell, there is a possibility that you have a persistent low grade infection. Depending on what was done during your rhinoplasty, you may have a foreign body such as a permanent suture that may be the nidus for the infection. One easy way to tell is if you complete a course of antibiotics and the smell goes away. It may return after a while but then you have a better idea that it is likely an infection that is causing the smell.
The Benefits Of Receiving A DCF Rhinoplasty
This topic brings up a relevant discussion about why people come to my practice for a DCF Rhinoplasty. Other than using cartilage from your own body plus donor rib (versus a traditional silicone implant) and receiving more natural-looking results, the main benefit of receiving a DCF is knowing that the risk of infection is very little-to-none.
Rhinoplasty Revision Examples of Patients Who Had Implant Removal Due To Infection And Irregularities
A handful of my DCF Rhinoplasty cases are actually of patients seeking revisions after receiving traditional silicone implants in their nose from other practices. The reasons for wanting their implants removed in exchange for a natural DCF vary. Many times though, it’s because of an infection or irregularity from their foreign implant.
Do you have any specific surgical questions that you can’t find answers to elsewhere? Send me an email or fill out the quick form on our contact page.
(Question Source: RealSelf)
Are you looking to get non-surgical or surgical procedures done? Contact my team to schedule a complimentary one-on-one consultation with both my Patient Care Coordinator and myself. We will go over your areas of concern, what your body goals are and which procedures would overall benefit you. Afterwards, my Patient Care Coordinator will assist you with quotes, pricing and any other follow up questions you may have.
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Edwin Kwon, MD, FACS
Edwin Kwon Plastic Surgery
