Are there non surgical or minimally invasive options to correct nostril asymmetry?

Question

I am over a year post op primary rhinoplasty and have nostril asymmetry. I would like to lower one nostril and possibly make one nostril smaller or the other one bigger so they will be more symmetrical. I know silikon-1000 could potentially lower the nostril but is there a way to change the shape and size of the nostrils without a complete revision as I only want the nostrils fixed.

Mark K. Markarian, MD, MSPH, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  Although an exam in person is ideal, from your photographs alone it appears that you can benefit from a subtle tip refinement where the nasal tip cartilage is modified.  I am unaware of a non-surgical modality to reliably (and permanently) improve nostril asymmetry.  Due to your prior rhinoplasty, the cartilage in your septum was likely harvested and so you will likely require MTF (cadaver) cartilage.  The modification of your nasal cartilage can be done with trimming, stitching or grafting.

Once all the swelling has resolved (as it likely has at a year postop), the next step for you is to pursue the right aesthetic plastic surgeon for your revision rhinoplasty.  In your rhinoplasty consultation, be sure your surgeon addresses all your aesthetic goals and concerns specifically, and discusses the surgery details including the position and size of the incisions used (with actual photographs and not just digital animations), the risks and benefits of the procedure, recovery time, and post-operative course.  Also, be sure to see plenty of before-and-after pictures in patients who have a similar nose appearance to yours, and preferably at different time frames (3 weeks out, 3 months out, etc) to more accurately predict your own surgical outcome.

After seeking out a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in aesthetic plastic surgery, I think the most important component of the consultation is to establish a good connection with your plastic surgeon.  It’s the connection that allows you to clearly define your desired nose outcome goals, the first step of this whole process. If you don’t feel you have a good connection with your plastic surgeon after your consultation, he/she may not be the best surgeon for you.

For more information on rhinoplasty, please refer to my link below.

Good luck.

Mark K Markarian, MD, MSPH, FACS
Harvard-trained Board Certified Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Good Morning! Yes, nostril revision is possible without a large, revision procedure. A composite graft from the ear is a great technique to lower the margin on the front view. Improved symmetry is the goal but certainly not perfection. The composite graft comes from the ear and heals nicely. The graft is placed inside the nostril to help "push" the alar margin downward. This procedure can be performed in the office and patients state it causes minimal discomfort. Seek consultation with a Facial Plastic Surgeon versed in composite grafts to learn more. Hope this helps!

Are there non surgical or minimally invasive options to correct nostril asymmetry?

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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

Are there non surgical or minimally invasive options to correct nostril asymmetry?

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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