Crooked Nose After Rhinoplasty: Is It a Sign of Surgical Negligence?
Is your nose crooked after rhinoplasty? This can cause understandable concern, and you may be wondering what options are available. Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as nose reshaping surgery or a nose job, is a type of plastic surgery performed to alter the size, shape or overall appearance of the nose, and in some cases to address a deviated septum. When improvements to the nasal septum function are required, this may be combined with cosmetic changes in a procedure known as septorhinoplasty.
Although rhinoplasty is often carried out to correct nasal asymmetry, it is possible for the nasal structure to appear crooked during or after the healing process. This guide outlines what you can expect if your nose looks uneven following a rhinoplasty procedure, including the typical recovery timeline, when this might indicate surgical negligence and how you may be able to pursue compensation.
What are your surgeon's obligations to prevent post-rhinoplasty asymmetry?
Your surgeon has a duty of care to minimise the risk of asymmetry following rhinoplasty. This duty applies before, during and after surgery.
- Before surgery: your surgeon should explain the realistic results you can expect, outline potential complications and discuss any alternative treatment options.
- During surgery: they must use the correct surgical technique and perform the procedure as agreed with you during the consultation.
- After surgery: they should provide clear aftercare advice and monitor your healing, watching for signs that something may have gone wrong.
If your nose is crooked after rhinoplasty and your surgeon failed to undertake any of the precautionary measures above, you may be able to claim compensation.
How can you achieve the best surgical results?
Your surgeon has a duty to provide you with clear aftercare instructions to aid recovery and help achieve the best possible outcome. Proper aftercare reduces the risk of nose asymmetry and other complications while supporting the long-term results of your surgery. Typical advice may include:
- Keeping your head elevated while sleeping. This can help reduce swelling and improve circulation during the healing process.
- Avoiding strenuous exercise. Physical exertion can increase blood flow to the face and may place unnecessary pressure on the nose.
- Protecting your nose from trauma. Taking care not to knock your nose or sneeze forcefully can prevent disruption to the healing tissues and cartilage.
- Using cold compresses. Where appropriate, your surgeon may suggest this to minimise swelling in the days immediately after surgery.
How long can you expect to have a crooked nose after rhinoplasty?
As the natural healing process progresses after a nose surgery you may notice the appearance of a crooked nose. Uneven swelling after rhinoplasty is extremely common and it may be a while before your nose's final surgical results are apparent. Below we explain the average recovery process:
Three months
By the three-month stage, most post-rhinoplasty swelling will usually have subsided, although some subtle swelling may still remain. A crooked nose three months after rhinoplasty procedure may also be linked to scar tissue developing beneath the skin, particularly around incision sites. This should have been considered and planned for by the surgeon before the procedure. In addition, cartilage that has been reshaped or repositioned during surgery can begin to shift slightly under the pressure of surrounding structures, which may contribute to changes in nasal symmetry as the healing process progresses.
Six months
If you are concerned about a crooked nose six months after rhinoplasty, most residual swelling will usually have settled, although a small amount may still remain. At this stage, asymmetry is more likely to be linked to scar tissue formation or minor shifts in cartilage following the procedure. While minor deviations can be common, noticeable or persistent asymmetry may suggest underlying issues that should be reviewed carefully.
One year
If your nose appears crooked one year after rhinoplasty, this is usually considered the final healed result. By this stage, most scar tissue will have softened, so any asymmetry caused by this earlier in recovery will typically be reduced. Visible asymmetry at this point may suggest that the surgery did not go to plan and could be the result of an error during the procedure or inadequate aftercare.
If you believe your nose surgery hasn't gone to plan get in touch with your surgeon who may advise on revision rhinoplasty or alternative non-surgical options such as dermal fillers. Alternatively you may want to seek a second opinion from a more reputable and experienced surgeon who is specialised in revision surgery and can advise on the best surgical correction to address the results of the initial surgery.
Is your nose still crooked after rhinoplasty?
If your nose remains crooked after rhinoplasty and you believe this is due to surgical negligence, Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors could help you take the next step. Living with results that do not match what was promised can be distressing, both physically and emotionally. You may also be facing the cost and inconvenience of revision surgery, travel to appointments and time away from work. A compensation claim can help you recover these losses and provide recognition for the suffering you have endured.
At Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors, we specialise in supporting patients whose cosmetic surgery has gone wrong. With years of experience in this complex area of law, we understand the impact that negligence can have on your life and will fight to secure the best possible outcome for you.
We work on a no win, no fee basis, which means there is no financial risk to you = you only pay if your claim is successful. Our team will guide you through every stage of the process, gathering evidence, building a strong case, and pursuing the maximum compensation available on your behalf.
If you are ready to take action, speak to Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors today. We are here to listen, advise, and help you move forward with confidence.
Get in touch today by calling 0808 189 7704 or using our .
