Will spreader grafts for internal nasal valve collapse make the nostrils look more open/visible?

Question

I had a primary rhinoplasty that left me with collapsed nasal valves, when I breathe in you can see my nostrils closing, and they cave on the inside and outside. Noticeable dents but I have thicker skin so it isn’t as apparent. My surgeon is going to place spreader grafts because I cannot breathe right since my original surgeon took too much out. My question is, will my nostrils themselves look more open and be more visible after my revision with the spreader grafts?

David C. Pearson, MD · Answer

Generally speaking, spreader grafts will not change the size and shape of the nostrils. Spreaders are used to improve breathing and will make the mid-third of the nose very slightly wider. If there is some nostril collapse, additional grafts such as alar batten grafts can be used to open them and stiffen them against collapse. All the best,--DCPPearson Facial Plastic Surgery®

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Hi @pjannahx! This is an excellent question. Spreader grafts will not change the size and shape of the nostrils. Spreader grafts are used to improve breathing. If there is nostril collapse, an alar batten graft can be used. Best of luck, Dr. Nima!

Suleyman Tas, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hello, thank you for the question and provided information. Based on them it can be said that you can improve the  function of nose with a spreader graft without making the nose to look excessively wide in patients with thick skin. You can benefit from some skin treatment for achieving the best result for a thick skin.Kind Regards,

Kapil Saigal, MD, FACS · Answer

It may be best for you to discuss in consultation with an experienced facial plastic surgeon.  Weakness of the nostrils on inspiration is indicative of external nasal valve collapse and is repaired using alar batten grafts.  On the other hand spreader grafts are used to strengthen the internal nasal valve, and have to do with the integrity of the middle third of the nose.  Spreader grafts should not change the appearance of nostrils although they can in some cases, make the middle third of the nose wider.  However, to best understand how appropriate revision surgery is would be best discussed during a consultation with a board certified specialist.  Best of luck to you.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

No, spreader grafts will not change the shape of the nostrils. They simply act as a "collar stay" to hold open the upper lateral cartilages in the midportion of the nose. If your nostrils are collapsing, you may need batten grafts, or an alar rim graft.

Will spreader grafts for internal nasal valve collapse make the nostrils look more open/visible?

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