Can a Crooked Tip Creates a Retracted Nostrils?

My tip is shifted to the left and my left nostril is very retracted. I have been told by my doctor that once he fixes the tip the nostrils will be fixed automatically. I also want to know if counter rotating the tip makes the distance between the upper lip and the nose smaller. Thanks

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7 Doctor Answers | Asked by kako2 in Tracy, ca

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Crooked nasal tip and retracted nostrils

A twisted tip will create asymmetrical nostrils, but not necessarily alar retraction. The tip cartilages can be made more symmetrical with dome binding sutures, but is unlikely to repair alar retraction. Alar retraction is best treated with a composite graft of both cartilage and skin harvested from the ear. When the tip has been adjusted, distance between the upper lip and nose will appear smaller since the tip will be deprojected.

There are many ways to fix a crooked tip

Retracted nostrils usually are a result of a prior rhinoplasty operation. Previous surgery, especially if done 20+ years ago, often leaves the tip or lower lateral cartilages with a variety of deformities. Previous surgery on the nasal tip emphasized excision of cartilage to provide refinement. We know, as a result of following these patients for many years, that such techniques result in piching, bossae (knobs of cartilage on the dome or tip), and alar retraction. To correct such problems... more

Will an Asymmetrical Tip Cause Nostril Retraction?

It is possible to fix a retracted nostril by correcting the tip asymmetry, but pictures are necessary to answer your question accurately. Technically the distance between the lip and the nose (ie. the length of the upper lip) is determined by the space between the pink skin of the lip and the columella at the base of the nose. Tip rotation will not change that distance.

Richard W. Fleming, MD

9 reviews

Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.bevhills.com

Rhinoplasty and tip issues

Without an exam, it is impossible to say whether or not the retracted nostril will be corrected with tip revision.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Can a Crooked Tip Creates a Retracted Nostrils?

The shape, of the nostrils and how similar they appear is determined by the size, shape and strength of the lower lateral cartilages of the nose that comprise the nasal tip. These can be modified during closed or open Rhinoplasty to varying degrees. Tip rotation is what increases or decreases the appearance of upper lip to nose distance. Be sure the Rhinoplasty Surgeon, you choose, understands and follows the proper aesthetics of facial (and nasal) beauty for the... more

Crooked Tip

It is possible to rotate your nasal tip to improve symmetry. You would need to provide photos to determine if it would be appropriate.

Correction of a crooked tip and retracted nostril with revision rhinoplasty

Your tip deviation to the left and retraction of the left nostril are very likely related to the same issue, that your left tip cartilage (lower lateral cartilage) is flimsy and weak. This can be related to trauma but most often results from a prior rhinoplasty in which too much of this cartilage is shaved, leading to a loss of support. You can also get pinching on this side, which can cause difficulty breathing. In some cases, insurance coverage may be appropriate. Basically, the... more