Are Asymmetrical Nostrils After Rhinoplasty Normal?

Question

Hello, I've had open Rhinoplasty roughly 3 weeks ago i still have a lot of swelling but whats bothering me a lot is the asymmetry in my nostrils thats clearly noticeable from the front and side views. Is this due to swelling?

George T. Moynihan, MD · Answer

Nostril asymmetry following rhinoplasty surgery is often exaggerated by swelling. Once a significant amount of the swelling has resolved (6-12 weeks), the asymmetry can be be evaluated. If still aesthetically upsetting there are procedures that can improve the asymmetry. You should consult with your surgeon to discuss possible solutions. Best of Luck.

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Rhinoplasty is used to correct malformation in the nose, including assymetry. A rhinoplasty may even be medically necessary if your nasal assymetry affects your breathing. Cheek and chin augmentation are the most effective procedures for correcting severe facial assymetry. I wish you all the best.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi,

	Best to discuss this with your rhinoplasty surgeon.  Look at your before pictures to see if there was nostril asymmetry.  Your left nostril appears to be retracted.  Doubt this is due to swelling at this point.  Good luck and be well.

	Dr. P

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

The most common cause of nostril asymmetry after surgery is nostril asymmetry prior to surgery. You may be noticing this more due to the amount of attention on your nose. Discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Hello,

	Thank you for the question and photo.  Nostril asymmetry, especially if mild, can be due to swelling.  Since you are only 3 weeks after your surgery I would definitely wait longer to assess your final nostril symmetry.

	All the best,

	Dr. Remus Repta

Catherine Huang-Begovic, MD, FACS · Answer

3 weeks is too soon to tell what your final nasal shape will be. It's not uncommon for the nasal swelling to go down on one side of the nose faster than the other so please be patient. Also, most people have slightly asymmetric nostrils.  You may want to review your pre-op photos with your surgeon to see if you had asymmetry prior to surgery. Regardless, if you have any concerns, you should definitely talk to your rhinoplasty surgeon. I'm sure he or she will be happy to discuss with you any questions you may have.

	Dr. Cat Begovic M.D.

Zain Kadri, MD · Answer

Most people have some degree of asymmetry of the nostrils. An astute surgeon will point that out during the consultation and offer choices of correction procedures. As the patient pays a more focused attention to their noses the asymmetry becomes more noticeable.

Richard Galitz, MD, FACS (in memoriam) · Answer

If there is a real nostril assymetry, as measured by calipers and not related to swelling or inflammation, it can easily be fixed with simple local anesthesia in 10 minutes.

Oleh Slupchynskyj, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Hi,

Looking at your picture and 3 weeks postop, I don't think your asymmetry is due to swelling. Consult with your surgeon and see what he/she says. You may need a slight revision.

Best,

Dr.S.

Are Asymmetrical Nostrils After Rhinoplasty Normal?

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