Is it normal for my nostrils to feel thin and flimsy? 4 weeks post

Question

I am 4 weeks post op Rhinoplasty. The cephalic portions of the lower lateral cartilages were trimmed. Will this cause my nostrils ( rim) to feel flimsy with no support?

Mark Been, MD · Answer

When procedures such as cephalic trim or other maneuvers that decrease the size of the lower lateral cartilages are performed, it is possible that could change the support of the nasal rim. That said, it is possible other maneuvers were also performed during your surgery, so your surgeon would be the best to answer this question. I would ask this question to your surgeon's office to get better clarification. Best of luck!

Garrett A. Wirth, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

After rhinoplasty there are many variables in your recovery.  The amount of tissue manipulation, removal, revisions, refinements, etc as well as post-operative swelling and nerve changes.  While some of what you suspect is happening may be based on structural changes that were done during surgery, some may also be to the neurological changes that are still in place with decreased or changed sensations in that region.  It is too early to determine your final result.  Follow your recovery instructions and monitor for changes with your surgeon.  Best wishes.WirthPlasticSurgery.com

Brian Hwang, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Lamb and Lion,
Cephalic trim of the lower lateral cartilages is a common maneuver in rhinoplasty. A common misconception is that the lower lateral cartilages lay right at the nostril rim at the edge. On the contrary, the lower lateral cartilages actually angle upward away from the nostril rim. 
Please visit your plastic surgeon for a more accurate description of what was done during surgery, or a board-eligible/board-certified plastic surgeon for a clinical evaluation.
Best wishes,
Brian Hwang, MD

Is it normal for my nostrils to feel thin and flimsy? 4 weeks post

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Is it normal for my nostrils to feel thin and flimsy? 4 weeks post

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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