The right cartilage of my nose seems to have either caved in or flipped. What are my options with out ruining it worse? (photo)

Question

April of 2014 I got a really bad ingrown hair in my right nostril. After finally getting rid of the infection I've realized my cartilage has either caved in or flipped. It is distorting my nose and I'm pretty sure my cartilage is pinching a nerve. It's not very severe I'm just wondering my options. Thank you!

Jose Barrera, MD · Answer

Distortion of the nasal tip after infection could be caused by scar tissue in the area, although an ingrown hair by itself should not have caused the cartilages to cave in. I would recommend seeing a rhinoplasty specialist.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

The infection in the nasal skin most likely caused scar tissue which has pulled the cartilage in words causing a collapse like situation. Just undermining that area as a minor local procedure should improve it. RegardsDr. J

R. Scott Yarish, MD · Answer

You do indeed appear to have a "caved in" look to the lower cartilage on the right.  If the infection were severe enough, scar tissue could have formed, or the cartilage could have actually been destroyed.  It APPEARS to have a rather easy fix by simply adjusting the cartilage on the left to match the right.  However, as I'm sure others have mentioned, you need a hands on exam by a surgeon who is very experienced in nasal surgery.  My web site has multiple photos of nasal asymmetry that has been corrected.

Vasdev Rai, MD · Answer

Cartilages do not flip. You are likely to have had some scarring from ingrown hair infection. It is not possible to pinch nerves like you have described. Self diagnosis is a dangerous thing. See a plastic surgeon for any options.  A personal exam of your nose is the only way to give you the answer that counts.

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello asmi1992,An in person consultation is really the best option.  The reason is it is important to determine if what you are seeing is the underlying cartilage or if that is scar tissue from the bad infection, as the treatment options are different.  Because of the location of the cartilage and nerves, it would not be likely that the cartilage is pinching a nerve, but it could be the area is uncomfortable from scar tissue or other causes of pressure.  Again, the best way to evaluate is in person, so I'd recommend you consult with a facial plastic surgeon. I hope this helps and good luck.

Sanaz Harirchian, MD · Answer

If you are bothered by other aspects of your nose you can consider a rhinoplasty to reconfigure the nasal tip cartilages and change the appearance. But your cartilage is likely not pinching a nerve and I would not recommend surgery just for that reason. An in person exam is really needed to assess your options. Good luck. Best, Dr H

John B. Lazor, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

It is difficult to understand your areas of concern without an examination.  It is unlikely that the cartilage is pinching a nerve.  Please schedule a consultation with a rhinoplasty surgeon in your area.  This will give you and idea as to your options.

The right cartilage of my nose seems to have either caved in or flipped. What are my options with out ruining it worse? (photo)

Answers (7)

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