1 year post op and nostrils look unnatural when smiling - is it too early for a revision? (photos)

Question

I had a rhinoplasty done a year ago. I asked for the same shape as my natural nose but scaled down and smaller. However, I was given a less ethnic looking shape. Overall, the job doesn’t look bad when resting. There still some asymmetries. But, I actually recieve compliments often. However, when I smile big my nostrils look unnatural on some pictures and certain angles. I can’t find much information on this issue. Is it still too early to consider this a botched job? Are revisions recommended?

Lexie Wang, MD · Answer

your nostrils will always be different sizes/shapes (normal) so don't worry about chasing symmetry for this or you will drive yourself crazy. One thing you might be noticing is that your sill widht is still on the wide side, and that might be why you find that things look weird when you are smiling bc it will emphasize this. You could consider a revision alarplasty to just narrow the sill some more if that's something you're interested in.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

Nostril Asymmetry 
It is almost impossible to achieve nostril symmetry. Any attempts can lead to taking too much off one side and then going back to take some more from the other side. As this goes on permanent scarring with poor healing can lead to worst asymmetry than before the surgery was done. 
Also, it is very important to remember that nobody will look at your nostrils from below. From the front view the nostrils don't look as asymmetric as from below. Unless the asymmetry is really obvious and disfiguring, it should be left alone.

Regards
Dr. J

Daniel A. Barker, MD · Answer

Nostril asymmetry is pretty common after rhinoplasty and can be fixed with an alar base surgery. In order of importance is: nasal dorsum, nasal tip and profile first, then nostril symmetry. Every surgeon works on the important parts first which are more important that nostril symmetry. You might also consider botox to the depressor muscles of the nose.

1 year post op and nostrils look unnatural when smiling - is it too early for a revision? (photos)

Answers (3)

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