I'm a 35 yr old male in NY and I had nose surgery 2 months ago. The surgeon made incisions in my mouth just above my canine's and I think it has made my upper lip permanently numb. Also, my left cheek is numb close to my nose. I've read about possible nerve damage and it seems that the numbness has not gotten any better for the past 3 weeks. Can I expect any additional nerve regeneration? Is there anything I can do to increase the healing time/outcome?
August 3, 2014
Answer: Numbness and rhinoplasty In general, almost all noses are numb right after a rhinoplasty. In most cases its the tip that is numb, but this numbness can extend down to the upper lip, and in rare cases some of the teeth. It is also not uncommon that one side of the nose is more numb than the other. There are nerves that are cut and stretched during a rhinoplasty, and it takes a long time for those nerves to start working again. This is true of an open as well as closed rhinoplasty, although it tends to be more extensive in open rhinoplasty. This could also be more extensive if a septoplasty is performed at the same time. This, along with the swelling, gives you a stiff, plastic type feel, and can give you an odd smile. However, the nerves will start working and again, and your nose stiffness will go away with time. This takes in most cases months, but can take years in rare cases. Extremely rarely, the numbness is permanent, although I have never seen such as case.Best Wishes,Pablo Prichard, MD
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August 3, 2014
Answer: Numbness and rhinoplasty In general, almost all noses are numb right after a rhinoplasty. In most cases its the tip that is numb, but this numbness can extend down to the upper lip, and in rare cases some of the teeth. It is also not uncommon that one side of the nose is more numb than the other. There are nerves that are cut and stretched during a rhinoplasty, and it takes a long time for those nerves to start working again. This is true of an open as well as closed rhinoplasty, although it tends to be more extensive in open rhinoplasty. This could also be more extensive if a septoplasty is performed at the same time. This, along with the swelling, gives you a stiff, plastic type feel, and can give you an odd smile. However, the nerves will start working and again, and your nose stiffness will go away with time. This takes in most cases months, but can take years in rare cases. Extremely rarely, the numbness is permanent, although I have never seen such as case.Best Wishes,Pablo Prichard, MD
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May 3, 2012
Answer: Upper Lip and Cheek Numbness Post Rhinoplasty
Both problems are very rare after rhinoplasty, especially the cheek numbness. I agree that it does sound like a nerve injury. Sensation can improve for another 3-4 months. Continue to visit your surgeon to document your progress.
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May 3, 2012
Answer: Upper Lip and Cheek Numbness Post Rhinoplasty
Both problems are very rare after rhinoplasty, especially the cheek numbness. I agree that it does sound like a nerve injury. Sensation can improve for another 3-4 months. Continue to visit your surgeon to document your progress.
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