What is this line on the side of my nostril? How can it be improved? (Photos)

Question

34 y/o caucasian female. I had 2 open rhinoplasties. The revision was done with cartilage from my nose. There is still a line that shows along with indents. What is this?

Philip S. Schoenfeld, MD, FACS · Answer

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.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your photographs, you may benefit from a revision rhinoplasty to improve the contour of your tip. Your surgeon can accomplish this by trimming, suturing, and reshaping the cartilage in your lower nose. Fascial grafts may also be used to help improve tip refinement and provide camouflage. With good surgical technique, you could have an outstanding result. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

It appears to be the contours of your lower lateral cartilage (tip cartilage) on that side. Your skin is fairly thin, so the contours of the lower lateral cartilage are visible along your tip as well. Techniques to reposition the cartilage or reduce the convexity of the cartilage would be necessary to eliminate the visibility of that line.

What is this line on the side of my nostril? How can it be improved? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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What is this line on the side of my nostril? How can it be improved? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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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.