After Rhinoplasty nostrils are different is that normal?

Question

I did open rhinoplasty surgery 3 months ago and my nostrils have different sizes is it normal? is it swelling ?

Christopher C. Chang, MD · Answer

Yes, it is possible to have differences in nostril shape that can be either due to surgery, but can also be things you never noticed prior to surgery.  Your surgeon should have a photo from the bottom view to analyze the nostril position and shape.  Depending on the techniques used, he/she may have adjusted your cartilages, which also may contribute to nostril asymmetry.  Lastly, if they did an open rhinoplasty, there are intranasal incisions that can heal and occasionally the scar tissue can pull the nostril opening in different ways, contributing to asymmetry.

Discuss this with your doctor and ask for photos to follow up.  Swelling can be a source as well, but should be normalizing in the 3-6 month time frame, and finally stabilizes by the 1 year mark.

Hope that helps,

Christopher C. Chang, MD

Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for enquire.Swelling after a rhinoplasty depends of the surgery complexity.In this regard, the nasal swelling Post-op It can last from two weeks to two months.To reduce this swelling, I recommend you perform delicates daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the face (around the nose) avoid sun exposure, and take pain/inflamation pills, as your surgeron precribe you.Kind regards, Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Garrett A. Wirth, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Nostrils can have different sizes before and after rhinoplasty.  Although we work to achieve symmetry, there can still be some differences.  Further, as this short interval after your surgery, there are still some issues with swelling that may be contributing to the differences you notice.  Continue to be patient and best of luck.Garrett A. Wirth, MD, MS, FACSWirth Plastic Surgery

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is always helpful to review preop photos with post-op photos. Many patients do not appreciate their asymmetry before surgery.

Todd Christopher Hobgood, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question!Surgical healing time is sometimes more extensive than patients expect. With a rhinoplasty, patients can expect to experience swelling and on-going changes that occur to the nose for up to a year after the procedure. That being said, if you have any specific concerns you should visit your surgeon, or a board-certified facial plastic surgeon's office to be assessed. I hope this is helpful to you! Be well,Dr. Todd Hobgood, MDScottsdale, AZ

After Rhinoplasty nostrils are different is that normal?

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After Rhinoplasty nostrils are different is that normal?

Answers (6)

Answer: Nostrils

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