Woman Says Her Nose Leaks ’24/7′ After Rhinoplasty. A Doctor Explains When Drainage Becomes a ‘Concern’ (Exclusive)

In a recent social media post, influencer Olivia Dayton has sparked concern among her followers by revealing that her nose has been continually leaking fluid since she underwent a rhinoplasty procedure. In a TikTok video shared in February, Dayton captured a moment where she flipped her hair, revealing the liquid that dripped from her nose. Her candid admission—”Just a PSA if you want to get a nose job, your nose will decide it wants to drip 24/7″—immediately caught the attention of many viewers.

Dayton’s followers quickly expressed their worries in the comments section of her post. One user exclaimed, “No girl, it’s NOT supposed to do that!!!!” while others speculated that the persistent drainage might be indicative of a serious condition, with some suggesting it could be a spinal fluid leak. Such comments underline the anxiety surrounding post-surgical symptoms as social media provides a platform for real-time feedback and community support among users.

The influencer responded to her commenters with a light-hearted tone, stating, “When you get sick, it really is 24/7 lol BUT I’D DO IT AGAIN IN A HEARTBEAT.” This statement illustrates her enthusiasm for the procedure despite the discomfort she has experienced. However, her situation has certainly raised eyebrows, prompting many to wonder if her symptoms could signify a more serious issue.

To shed light on the matter, plastic surgeon Dr. Sean T. Doherty, based in Boston, spoke with PEOPLE about post-rhinoplasty experiences. He noted that nasal dripping after such surgery is typically not a cause for concern and often resolves itself over time. “The inside of the nose contains mucosal tissue and small mucus-producing glands,” he explained. “This tissue is delicate, and surgery can alter the normal airflow, sensation, and moisture balance within the nasal passages.”

Dr. Doherty elaborated further, indicating that rhinoplasty can temporarily affect nerve function and mucus regulation. He explained that the surgery may lead to swelling, which alters fluid movement through the nose. As a result, patients might notice an increase in normal secretions, which could be perceived as excessive drainage. Environmental factors like temperature fluctuations, vigorous exercise, spicy food, and emotional stress can exacerbate the sensation of a runny nose.

According to Dr. Doherty, as patients heal over the subsequent months, the drainage typically improves. However, he urged caution, detailing specific red flags that should prompt a consultation with a healthcare professional. “Persistent drainage, particularly if it’s unilateral, accompanied by pain, bleeding, fever, or a metallic taste should be assessed by the surgeon,” he cautioned. He also warned that such symptoms could indicate infection, chronic inflammation, or allergic reactions. Although rare, he acknowledged that cerebrospinal fluid leaks are a potential concern that requires medical attention.

Social media has become a platform for sharing both routine and unique postoperative experiences, and Dr. Doherty noted that some cases highlighted online may not reflect common outcomes. “Occasional nasal dripping after rhinoplasty is not unheard of and is generally related to the normal healing process,” he asserted. He reassured patients that these symptoms usually don’t indicate a significant problem, emphasising that most individuals can expect to recover well from their procedures.

Despite the emotional reactions and various interpretations surrounding Dayton’s experience, it is essential for prospective rhinoplasty patients to be well-informed about what they might encounter during recovery. Having open conversations with healthcare providers about potential side effects can alleviate concerns and provide a clearer understanding of what constitutes normal healing.

Dayton’s candidness about her post-operative experience has undoubtedly resonated with many, prompting a dialogue about the realities of cosmetic surgery. As she continues to navigate her recovery, her willingness to share both the highs and lows could help demystify the surgical process, enabling others to approach their own procedures with a more balanced perspective.