My nostrils have a different shape, is this because of the swelling even after 6 months op? (Photos)

Question

Hello! I had a rhinoplasty 6 months ago, i really like how it looks on the side view but the front looks a bit wonky to me. My nostrils are a different size and shape, and also my nose is shifted slightly to one side, my tip is very hard and the scars inside my nose (columella) are still swollen, will this go down? Is my nose crooked and the nostrils because of the columella scars inflammation? Thank you very much!

Stephen J. Pincus, MD · Answer

The swelling and induration (firmness) following a rhinoplasty take many months to completely resolve. And although we generally think of most of it resolving by 6 months, it does vary from patient to patient depending on skin type, amount of surgery, skill of the surgeon and post-operative care. In your case, you do seem to have some degree of nostril asymmetry and differential swelling, which gives the appearance of a slight nasal deviation. The nostril asymmetry is usually due to any variation between work done between the two sides, as well as how the wound was closed. I would guess that in your case, closure of the incision for your right nostril pulled the border up slightly. This can occur if the incision was made too close to the edge of the nostril and/or if too much tension is placed on the closue. That does not usually resolve with time.

My nostrils have a different shape, is this because of the swelling even after 6 months op? (Photos)

Answers (1)

More Rhinoplasty Questions

My nostrils have a different shape, is this because of the swelling even after 6 months op? (Photos)

Answers (1)

More Rhinoplasty Questions

9 months post op, developing poly beak deformity? What can I do?

Nose tip options and is this a hanging columella?

What type of procedure do I need to lift tip of nose and minimize nostrils?