Is it possible to change the nasal cartilages by touching them?

Question

hi, it has been about 6 months since I developed an obsession that leads me to compulsively touch the tip of my nose (cartilage area). I exert light pressure of a few seconds, which I repeat many times a day. Is it possible that these have deformed (even slightly) permanently my nose? I ask this because it has been a while since the tip seems more swollen than before and I wanted to know if it is a temporary situation or I have done irreparable damage

Scott Trimas, MD · Answer

It is not possible to permanently reshape your nasal tip cartilages by squeezing them multiple times a day. If you recently had trauma or surgery, then you could break up scar tissue but squeezing them should have no long term effect.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

There is no possibility that nose cartilages will change with frequent touching. However,  mild swelling may result as a consequence of touching, massaging or whatever else you may be doing. You may consider seeing a professional from behavioral medicine to work on correcting this habit. Good luck.

Suleyman Tas, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. Touching your nose can't change the shape of your tip, the only way of reducing and reshaping the nose permanently is a surgical intervention. To find out if you are a good candidate for rhinoplasty please click on the attached link. Best Regards

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

The cartilage is internal so repeatedly touching your nose should not alter it. Please let me suggest that, with this OCD Ben’s Igor, you should see a psychiatrist for treatment including psychopharmacology. Good luck.

Is it possible to change the nasal cartilages by touching them?

Answers (4)

Answer: Nasal cartilage changes

Answer: Nasal cartilage changes

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Is it possible to change the nasal cartilages by touching them?

Answers (4)

Answer: Nasal cartilage changes

Answer: Nasal cartilage changes

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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