Why is one nostril larger than the other? Why is one side of my lip higher than the other? (Photo)

Question

Can it be fixed? Do I have to have surgery?

Richard W. Westreich, MD · Answer

Facial asymmetry usually underlies any nostril or lip asymmetry and is normal. Correction can be done often with a rhinoplasty for the nostril asymmetry. Lip asymmetry is more difficult. If you look at the photos submitted, the entire upper and lower lip unit is slanted down to the right. There are probably some underlying dental asymmetries as well, which, if corrected, can help with lip position as well.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  Nostril asymmetry is usually related to the position of your lower lateral cartilage.  This can be improved with a rhinioplasty.  A rhinoplasty could also decrease the width of your nasal tip.   Make sure you specifically look at before and
after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your
surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most important aspect is to
find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend that you seek consultation
with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in
person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

There are no faces in the world that are perfectly asymmetric, so you should not be concerned about natural asymmetry in the face.  It does not need any treatment.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Everyone has facial asymmetry and most do not notice this until after surgery.  It is impossible to make them perfectly symmetrical. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your nose or lips, then they can be improved.

Michael T. Somenek, MD · Answer

A rhinoplasty can address the aesthetic concerns that you mentioned. I would schedule a consultation with a rhinoplasty specialist to get a thorough evaluation and better understand what you can achieve with a nasal surgery.

Why is one nostril larger than the other? Why is one side of my lip higher than the other? (Photo)

Answers (5)

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