What causes nostril asymmetry? (photos)

Question

I've had uneven nostrils since I was a baby and I don't get it. My parents are stunning people with symmetrical noses. HOW does this even happen? Many people tell me that I'm gorgeous because I have "balanced" features, but this makes me SO self-conscious. What can I do about it?

Adam Bryce Weinfeld, MD · Answer

There are so many possible explanations.  Here is one that is hypothetical.A lot of people break their noses when they are young, perhaps learning to walk.  You might have fractured your septum and this could change the shape your nose in subtle ways resulting in the slight difference you see.

Richard Rival, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Nostril asymmetry is very common very few people have perfectly symmetric nostrils. This is related to asymmetry in the cartilages that make up your tip, the septum or the skin attachments to the cheek. This can often be improved with rhinoplasty but usually there will some remaining asymmetry. If this is the only issue that bothers you about your nose I wouldn't recommend going through rhinoplasty.

Michelle R. Yagoda, MD · Answer

Dear Leo,Nostril asymmetry can be the result of differences in the size and shape of the cartilages of the nose.  No one is perfectly symmetric.  If this bothers you, there is an easy, immediate and predictable treatment!  Filler can be placed in the nostril and along the rim, to make both sides more even.  Take a look at my gallery and you will see some examples.Best of luck,Dr. Michelle Yagoda (DrYagoda)

Michael R. Menachof, MD · Answer

All of us are asymmetric, some more than others.Having nostril asymmetry is not terribly uncommon and happens for a variety of reasons. While surgery can sometimes help, correcting asymmetry is one of the most difficult things we do. We clearly are our own worst critic. If people are commenting on how pretty you are and how balanced your features are, it may be that surgery may not be able to make things better for you.  I know that it is easy for me to say, but focusing on how you look from the front (the way that almost all people see you), instead of how you look when somebody is looking from below up (the way almost no one sees you), in all honesty is probably your best option.  Good luck.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Everyone has some asymmetries to their face, and some are more extreme than others. It might be difficult to balance the two nostrils to your satisfaction.

Michael L. Schwartz, MD · Answer

We all have asymmetries on our face and part of that is what makes an individual face unique. In you case you may have had trauma that shifted things as you grow or you just may have different sized tip cartilages. You may also have some underlying differences in your facial skeleton causing the asymmetric insertion of your alae. If you would like this improved (complete correction may not be possible) you should seek consultation.

What causes nostril asymmetry? (photos)

Answers (6)

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