Why does my nose look like this? What procedure will help? (Photos)

Question

I didn’t have an accident but do have a chronic runny nose and nasal drip. Is there any procedure to help? Thank you

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

The close basal photo shows nostril asymmetry and a possible caudal septal or columellar deviation, but the very close camera angle distorts the nasal base and cannot show the internal airway. That visible shape does not by itself explain chronic rhinorrhea or postnasal drip, and cosmetic rhinoplasty would not be expected to treat those symptoms.

An ENT evaluation with nasal examination or endoscopy should look for allergic or nonallergic rhinitis, sinus inflammation, medication effects, and structural obstruction. Treatment often begins with saline irrigation and diagnosis-specific sprays, such as a nasal steroid, antihistamine, or ipratropium, under medical guidance. Septoplasty or turbinate treatment helps selected patients with obstruction, not drainage alone. For carefully selected chronic rhinitis that persists despite medical therapy, posterior nasal nerve treatment with cryotherapy or radiofrequency may be considered. The correct option depends on the cause and your examination.

Eyup Bozkurt, MD · Answer

As an otorhinolaryngologist, I can say the following based on what is visible in the basal (underside) view of your nose:
Your septum&mdash;the structure in the midline of the nose&mdash;does not appear to be perfectly centered. This can negatively affect nasal breathing and disrupt normal airflow within the nasal cavity.
In addition, the presence of chronic nasal discharge and post-nasal drip suggests that there may also be an allergic component contributing to your symptoms.
Of course, a definitive diagnosis would require a full clinical examination and, ideally, more detailed photographs or an in-person or online consultation. However, based on what can be observed here and on your symptoms, septoplasty (correction of the septum) along with turbinate reduction would likely provide significant relief.
If you also have concerns about the appearance of your nose, rhinoplasty can be performed during the same surgery, addressing both functional and aesthetic concerns in a single procedure.
Kind regards,Dr. Eyüp BozkurtOtorhinolaryngology (ENT) SpecialistRhinoplasty Surgeon

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You will need a septoplasty as your septum is deviated to one side. Your photograph is very limited but you may need a rhinoplasty at the same time as well. I would need more photographs to give you a more accurate answer.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

The base view of the nose shows a lot in your particular case. The bulge on your right side is the bottom of your septum, that is causing your columella to veer to the left side. Additionally, your Airway is narrowed, even on the left side, by the bulge of tip tissue that is touching the septum on both sides. From a functional standpoint, you would require correction of your deviated nasal septum, along with repair of your external nasal valves with lateral crural strut grafts, to breathe better. This would also lead to a more symmetrical nasal base appearance. Please consider meeting with several reputable rhinoplasty specialists who have large before and after the galleries, and many favorable consumer online reviews. I hope this helps. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your photograph, you are a great candidate for rhinoplasty. Maneuvers for your surgery would include septal reset to move your deviated caudal septum centrally, among other maneuvers. With good surgical technique, you could have an outstanding result. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Ayhan Isik Erdal, MD, FACS, FEBOPRAS · Answer

You have this asymmetry due to your septum and "lower lateral cartilage" anatomy. You may benefit from septum straightening surgical maneuvers. I strongly recommend that you use a nasal stent (nostril retainer) for a few months after surgery; this is very important. Best wishes.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Based on the upper view of your nose, you have a severe neat deviated nasal septum that will need surgical interventions. Best to see board certified plastic or facial Plastic surgeon. Expect fees if not covered by insurance to range from $10,000-$20,000. This might be covered by your insurance plan. Good luck.

Why does my nose look like this? What procedure will help? (Photos)

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