Why do the sides of my nose look so different? (photos)

Question

I just noticed this but one side seems to be straight and other side is round? You can especially tell from the side. And my nostrils seem to be different shapes but I've never broken my nose or anything and no one has pointed it out before and what exactly needs to be done to make the sides match?

Karan Dhir, MD · Answer

It is well studied that the face, and the nose, have a certain level of asymmetry between the right and left sides.  This is true for arm length, leg length, breasts and hand/feet size.  A certain amount of asymmetry is completely normal and this is most often noticed with nostril shape and size and minor asymmetries along the nasal bridge. When performing rhinoplasty, it is always a goal to improve symmetry during the reshaping process.  However, to simply undergo a procedure for minor symmetries only, this may be a difficult task.  If you desire a nasal reshaping, I recommend you discussing the expectations of symmetry with your surgeon.  I recommend consulting with a board certified facial plastic and/or plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Scott Trimas, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon for the two sides of the nose to look different. In fact, if you took a picture of each side they would not be mirror images of one another. It is possible to improve symmetry but there are risks that the surgery could result in making it even more different. I would seek consultation with a rhinoplasty surgeon in your area.

Jason Altman, MD · Answer

It is completely normal to have slight differences between the two sides of your face. This can apply to your nose, as well as your eyes and jaw.  If you are unhappy with these differences you should have a consultation with an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon to discuss your options.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

These issues with symmetry are very subtle and would unlikely be much improved with surgery.  Surgery would only be indicated to change your tip or dorsal profile but not to obtain symmetry in your case.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Yes, you are very perceptive. The nose is not symmetric. Each side will have variations and to be exactly the same. I point this out to my patients before surgery, because inevitably most do not notice this until after surgery.

Sean Freeman, MD · Answer

dash811, you are L sided dominant but don't think you are at all unusual. I've specialized in faces only for over 25 years and almost everyone I examine has some kind of asymmetry. So if anyone promises you they can make you perfectly symmetric you can be assured they are not very busy and need cases! Should you entertain getting your nose done see an experienced surgeon who does "only faces". Good luck!

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

Every part of our body is asymmetrical; look at your eyes. Treatment is appropriate depending on the severity of that asymmetry but on the basis of these pictures I would not recommend surgery. Perfect symmetry is never a reasonable goal. Having said that, you should be examined by an experienced aesthetic facial surgeon.

Why do the sides of my nose look so different? (photos)

Answers (7)

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