My nose is curved to the left and my right nostril is higher and longer than the left side, will this correct in time? (photo)

Question

Hi I had surgery because I was in a car accident and had broken my nose which caused a deviated septum. They fixed my septum and rebroke the bone to straighten it. They also where going to narrow my nose for a more feminine look. It's been 4 weeks and I know I have a long way to go. I expressed concern with my Doctor that now my nose go's the the left and hasn't changed since surgery. He said he agreed it looked crooked, but said the bone was straight so was probably sweelling, is that right?

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear MichelleYou are correct in that it is too early to tell how the symmetry will change as the swelling subsides and scarring takes place. At this point, be patient, follow your surgeons instructions and give your nose time to heal.

Waseem Saeed, BSc, MBChB, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Dear Michelle, Without more detail about your injury and subsequent surgery it is difficult to answer your question with certainty, however a few points are pertinent:1. Injury creates scar tissue and distortion which can be improved but not completely corrected2. Subsequent surgery whilst improving the situation has its limits3. 4 weeks is too early to make any judgements about the final result as the effects of swelling going down and new internal scarring (from surgery) are as yet unclear4. Further intervention (should it be necessary) should only be considered when everything has settled (usually around 9 months) otherwise it will be inaccurate and may be followed by more severe swelling.5. From your images you have a mild asymmetry and I suspect it will be less relevant as the swelling settles, however it is due at least in part to a difference in the size/shape of the two alars (side parts of the lower nose) and this may be something you were born with, developed with growth or as a result of trauma. In my experience (20 years +)  identical halves of the nose are a rarity and mild asymmetry is compatible with a very good looking nose - so follow your surgeon's advice and wait and see.I hope that helps.Waseem Saeed

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Michelle, It is simply to early at this time to determine if the asymmetry is being caused from swelling or other factors. You do appear to be extremely swollen at four weeks post surgery and you will need to wait another month or so as the swelling dissipates for further analysis by your surgeon. Continue frequent post operative visits with your surgeon as he/she knows best where you are in the recovery phase and what your proposed results were. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

My nose is curved to the left and my right nostril is higher and longer than the left side, will this correct in time? (photo)

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My nose is curved to the left and my right nostril is higher and longer than the left side, will this correct in time? (photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.