16 years post rhinoplasty - rhinoplasty revision or non surgical nose job? (Photos)

Question

Can non-surgical rhinoplasty fix the appearance of my botched nose, or is revision surgery the only option? I suspect the surgeon may have used an implant without informing me. One side is more caved in than the other, it’s not symmetrical, and my nostrils are uneven. The rhinoplasty was done almost 16 years ago.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

I can understand why this is frustrating, especially after living with the results for so long. When a nose feels asymmetrical or “off,” it tends to become more noticeable over time, not less.

Based on what you’re describing—one side appearing more caved in, uneven nostrils, and possible implant use—this sounds more like a structural issue rather than just a surface irregularity. At 16 years out, that usually reflects changes in cartilage support, scar tissue, or prior surgical techniques.

Non-surgical rhinoplasty (filler) can sometimes help soften very mild contour irregularities. For example, I might use it to camouflage a small depression or improve the appearance of a dorsal line. However, it has limitations. It cannot correct true asymmetry, nostril imbalance, or underlying collapse. If there is an implant present, filler can also behave unpredictably and, in some cases, make things look heavier or less natural.

In a situation like yours, where there is visible asymmetry and a concern for prior implant placement, a revision rhinoplasty is usually the more appropriate and definitive option. That allows a surgeon to directly evaluate what was done previously, remove or adjust any implant if present, and rebuild the structure in a more balanced way.

Revision surgery is more complex than a primary rhinoplasty, so it’s important that it’s approached carefully and by someone experienced in secondary cases. But it is also the only way to truly address structural concerns and achieve a more lasting, natural result.

16 years post rhinoplasty - rhinoplasty revision or non surgical nose job? (Photos)

Answers (1)

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