Why do I have these slits at the bottoms of my nostrils after my rhinoplasty? (Photos)

Question

It looks very weird and unnatural. I have these slit/cut like shapes at the bottom of my nostrils and they became apparent 1 month after my closed rhinoplasty. They make my nostrils look big from the side and i’m concerned. The alar is also asymmetrical, right side wider than the left, is this likely to stay?

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If I had to guess, you are pointing to areas where your nostrils may have been narrowed. If this is the case, scar revision should be straightforward in an office-based procedure. I would be able to give a better answer if I saw your before photos of the base of your nose. Thank you so much for your question, and I hope this helps. Sincerely, Dr. Joseph

Philip S. Schoenfeld, MD, FACS · Answer

A pre operative photo would be helpful but it appears that the medial crural footplates of your lower lateral cartilages are pushed outward creating a slit in the nostril.  I wonder if part of your rhinoplasty included reducing the length of your nose.  This can be corrected but I suspect that there may have been some of that pre operatively

Oakley Smith, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Hi, It is better for you to consult with your facial plastic surgeon who can examine you and give you opinion based on examination. Mostly will stay as its.

Pawel Szychta, MD, PhD, DSc · Answer

It's common to notice asymmetries and irregularities in your nose during the healing process after rhinoplasty. Swelling and tissue changes can cause temporary issues like slit-like shapes at the bottom of your nostrils or differences in alar width. These often improve over time as healing progresses, which can take up to a year. I recommend discussing your concerns with your surgeon so they can assess your healing and provide guidance.

Why do I have these slits at the bottoms of my nostrils after my rhinoplasty? (Photos)

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Answers (4)

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