Uneven nostrils after septorhinoplasty? 3 weeks post-op. (Photo)

Question

Hi all, I had septorhinoplasty 3 weeks ago. I noticed my nostrils are uneven... One looks pinched at the top. I still have stitches in that nostril and they ache a little bit. Do you think my nostrils will even out? I attached a photo. You can see the stitches too and how uneven one nostril is. Thanks in advance!

Christopher Kolstad, MD · Answer

Hello,
It is very common to have swelling and inflammatory changes creating nostril asymmetry a few weeks after surgery.  Try to be patient as your body is recovering. Generally, nostril contours mature in about 6-12 months after rhinoplasty.  If you have concerns with your recovery I recommend speaking with your surgeon.

Farhan Taghizadeh, MD · Answer

Hello, and thanks for your question.  It sounds like you are concerned that your nostrils are uneven, which is a totally normal thing to be thinking about after a nose surgery.  Nose surgeries take several months to heal.  I have had patients where the swelling has not completely resolved for a few months.  You should give it some time, especially as the surgery was quite recent and you still have stitches in the nose.  It is difficult to tell exactly what the final result will be.  Stay in touch with your doctor, follow their instructions, and have patience.Have a wonderful day!Dr. Taghizadeh

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

It's still too soon to tell what your final results will be. You need to have patience with your body as it begins to heal. The skin, bone and cartilage are all traumatized during surgery. Inflammation (swelling) is the normal response and will help your nose to heal and look beautiful in the end. If, one year from now, you are unhappy with your nose, then that is the time to think about a revision procedure. Right now, concentrate on other things you like to do and let your nose and under eyes take the time to heal. I hope this helps.

Philip Solomon, MD, FRCS · Answer

It's not unusual to have uneven nostrils at this stage of the recovery process.  After undergoing a rhinoplasty, swelling is quite common and to be expected.  Try to be patient as it takes time for all swelling to resolve and can take up to one year.  I would recommend you see your surgeon for your follow-up appointments so they can monitor your progress.Best of luck,Dr. Philip Solomon, Solomon Facial Plastic, Toronto, Canada

Uneven nostrils after septorhinoplasty? 3 weeks post-op. (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Are uneven nostrils after septorhinoplasty unusual?

Answer: Are uneven nostrils after septorhinoplasty unusual?

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Uneven nostrils after septorhinoplasty? 3 weeks post-op. (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Are uneven nostrils after septorhinoplasty unusual?

Answer: Are uneven nostrils after septorhinoplasty unusual?

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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.