Rhinoplasty surgery, also called a nose job, is an effective cosmetic procedure for altering the shape and size of the nose and aligning it with the overall aesthetic of the shape. While it’s very common and generally safe, it also has its own set of potential risks and complications. One such challenge is a nasal tip drop after the surgery. Some patients have experienced having a droopy nasal tip. But what exactly is it? Why does it happen? How can it be corrected? Let’s find out!
What is Nasal Tip Drop?
You know there’s a nasal tip drop after rhinoplasty when you see the tip of the nose hanging or drooping downward. It looks like a less defined and unbalanced appearance that can make one worried and conscious. It’s not that you’ll get it right after the surgery, it would happen naturally with age or as a complication of a nose job.
This affects the shape of your nose, and it doesn’t look as balanced with other facial features as it should. It’s important to learn all the potential causes and correction methods of rhinoplasty before going for it.
Causes of Nasal Tip Drop After Rhinoplasty
Several reasons can cause a nasal tip drop after getting a nose job, including the following:
- Removing Too Much Nasal Cartilage: Rhinoplasty requires the removal or reshaping of the nasal cartilage to get the desired result. However, in cases where too much cartilage is removed from the nasal tip, the support structure gets weak, which causes the nasal tip to drop.
- Weak Nasal Tip: Some people just have weaker nasal tip support. This could be due to genetics or previous nasal trauma. In these cases, getting a nose job further weakens the nasal tip support and, hence, the nasal tip drop.
- Recovery Process: Not every nose heals the same after the surgery. In some patients, scar tissue is formed as the nose heals, and that becomes a reason for the drop of the nasal tip.
- Incorrect Technique: Choosing an inexperienced or average surgeon involves a risk of undergoing surgery with the wrong technique and having the nasal tip drop.
Correcting Nasal Tip Drop
Yes, the nasal tip might drop due to any of the reasons, but it can also be corrected if the severity of the case and the underlying cause can be handled. Here are some common droopy nasal tip correction techniques:
- Cartilage Grafting: In cases where extra nasal cartilage gets removed, this technique fits perfectly. The surgeon takes the cartilage from another body part, like the ear or rib, and uses it for the nasal tip.
- Septal Extension Graft: Septal cartilage is what separates the nostrils. Using a piece of it can support the nasal tip and fix drooping.
- Tip Rotation: There are also some cases where the nasal tip can be rotated slightly upward. This makes the tip look less droopy.
- Revision: Now, in those scenarios where there is no hope for correction, a revised surgery is recommended. In simple words, the patient has to undergo a second nose job to correct the droopy tip.
Recovery after rhinoplasty
The healing process after the drooping nasal tip rhinoplasty needs immediate monitoring for any swelling, discomfort, and pain. While the surgeon prescribes the required medicines to ease the pain, it’s suggested to do cold compresses and head elevation. All kinds of strenuous activities should be avoided to prevent complications. Regular cleaning and applying ointment is essential care that supports healing. Never skip any follow-up visits where the doctor monitors your progress. Remember, it may take up to several months for the nose to recover completely and show results, so be patient!
Who can get it done?
The nose job today is a common cosmetic surgery. Anyone who is overall healthy and doesn’t expect any drastic changes can go for it. Usually, individuals who are not really happy with how their nose looks, maybe due to some bump or asymmetry, get it done. However, it should be acknowledged that surgery’s use extends beyond appearance. It also addresses functional problems such as breathing difficulties brought on by a deviated septum. However, one must always consult a specialist, go through a thorough examination, and then learn from the surgeon only whether they are eligible for the procedure or not.
While enhanced facial appearance is the goal after rhinoplasty, it may also be accompanied by a potential complication. If drooping happens, go to your doctor and let them find out what is causing it so they can correct it with the right technique. Always choose a skilled and experienced surgeon to minimize any such risks.
