I had a primary rhinoplasty in February 2024. One year and 3 months after the surgery, I still have alar retraction in the left nostril. This makes my nose appear assymetrical from the front, and the nose looks less attractive when viewed from the left profile. However, the retraction is mild. My surgeon has offered to do a graft with skin (or cartilage?) harvested from my ear for only the cost of hospital fees. However, I am not sure it is worth the risks (scarring, failed graft, etc.) Would you recommend a revision for this outcome given the risks?
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Answers (2)
From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
You are seeing the lateral crura of the lower lateral cartilage on the left. It can be repositioned and if that is not required, softening of that cartilage can be achieved to alleviate the prominence. Thin skin often times is a set up for this issue.
Alarplasty will definitely help. The mild deviation of the columella is not significant and trying to correct that can cause other issues. Just stick with alarplasty.
Regards
Dr. Janjua
Your skin is thick and sebaceous. There is a definite risk of same scarring happening again. it is best to leave it alone. If it is not easily visible to other people then leave it alone. If they do notice (without you asking them) then do the revision very carefully with someone really...
