Are very uneven nostrils from the cast tape? (Photos)

Question

Got my cast off after 10 days and the nostrils were very asymmetrical. Day 13 now and it's still the same. My tip was taped under the cast and the tape became very loose on one of the sides of my tip, while there was still pressure on the other side. This began at day 3. I am scared that the cartilage has "set" unevenly because of it and created the asymmetry. Possible? If so, what should i do? My own surgeon is hard to contact directly unfortunately, therefore I am asking here. Thank you

Ali Riza Öreroglu, MD · Answer

This is seems like a more serious, structural problem. It looks more like a collapse than unevenness of nostrils. This isnt something that can be caused by swelling. Also not likely caused by a tape. You should be able to contact your surgeon when you need to and have your issues addressed.

Hope this helps,Ali Rıza Öreroğlu, MD FEBOPRASEuropean and Turkish Board Certified Aesthetic, Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeonIstanbul, Turkey

Hope this helps,Ali Rıza Öreroğlu, MD FEBOPRASEuropean and Turkish Board Certified Aesthetic, Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeonIstanbul, Turkey

Greg Bran, MD, PhD · Answer

According to your photos the nostril asymmetry appears to be more of either weak cartilaginous framework on your right side, or a displacement of the alar cartilage due to a slight rotation of your septum. If you have difficulties contacting your surgeon I would advise you to call or send photos and look for advice through another rhinoplasty surgeon in the meantime. I am sorry for this asymmetry you have. Be certain, this does not have to remain like this. Best of luck.
Greg Bran MD PhD
Double board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
Member of the European Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery
Member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

R. Laurence Berkowitz, MD · Answer

I share the concerns, views and advice of others on this site, but I would add that nostril shape early on can be dramatically improved with properly sized nostril retainers worn nightly.  These are available to your surgeon through Stryker Medical.  They are akin to wearing a retainer after orthodontia. The key is to be sized and then to use them religiously.

Mark Ginsburg, DO · Answer

Unfortunately, this does not look like it is from the tape of splint, at this point there appears to be something structural related to your surgery causing your nose to look this way.  There is no excuse for your surgeon not getting back to you.  I give all my post op patient my cell phone and they know they can call me 24/7 with any concerns.  If you are unable to get ahold of your surgeon, I would seek out a second opinion from someone else experienced with revision rhinoplasty.  Best of luck!

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

Although some temporary asymmetry of the nostrils is possible 10 days after rhinoplasty surgery, I agree this seems excessive. It is unlikely this is swelling or secondary to the tape placed after the operation. Consult with your surgeon who knows exactly what was done during your procedure.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Chalique, First and foremost your surgeon  should be able to be contacted. I personally give every surgery patient my private cell number in case they have any questions. I would suggest sending photographs via email to your surgeons office to discuss your concerns and request they contact you back. Your surgeon knows best what your preoperative concerns were, what techniques were used, what your proposed results were and where you are in the recovery phase. The asymmetry is not caused from the tape but rather from the technique. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

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