Is there cartilage or bone sticking through my left nostril?

Question

Hello! I am a 28 y/o African American female. I have had a recurring problem in my left nostril for as long as I can remember. It seems to start off as a small bump inside of my nostril, then it seems a piece of cartilage is sticking through. It comes and goes and is quite painful. I've never had any facial surgeries or trauma to the nose area. Any suggestions would be appreciated! Thank you in advance.

Theda C. Kontis, MD · Answer

Cartilage that can be seen when one looks up the nostril is often a subluxed septum. However, what you describe with pain and the fact is comes and goes, does not sound like a cartilaginous structure--it may be a cyst or folliculitis. I would recommend the next time it flares up to see an otolaryngologist or facial plastic surgeon.

Bahman Guyuron, MD · Answer

It would be impossible to offer you a meaningful advice without examining your nose. I suggest that you consult one of us locally to allow us to see what is causing the problem and give you a recommendation. This could be an infected small cyst around the hair follicle or an abnormal piece of cartilage causing a small erosion of the lining of the nose. It does not seem like something that you need to worry about but it is definitely something should be looked into.

Paul Loewenstein (retired) · Answer

Without  a picture of the problem, it is impossible to say what is causing this. Trying to make a diagnosis only based on online opinions is not a good idea. I suggest making an appointment with a plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon.

Is there cartilage or bone sticking through my left nostril?

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Is there cartilage or bone sticking through my left nostril?

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