Nose still long 6 months post op. How difficult is it to reduce the length? (photo)

Question

I had open septorhinoplasty w/ alarplasty 6m ago. My nose is still as long as it was preop & despite the alarplasty, my base & nostrils are still a bit wide. My tip is a bit big but I'm still healing so its ok. My nose length concerns me. How difficult is it to reduce the length of the nose after having a rhinoplasty? I just want it to be shorter. I know another alarplasty can fix width, but what about the longness? Is it a complicated & extensive procedure to shorten it?

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Hi @Terrific297798. I would consider waiting a full year before considering any intervention. If you are still unhappy after 1 year, I recommend seeing an expert revision rhinoplasty specialist for an in person examination.

Best of luck,

Dr. Nima

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Though much of the swelling is reduced within four months, your nose will be in a phase of recovery for at least one year following your rhinoplasty procedure. It is generally suggested to wait until this entire recovery process is complete to see the final results before considering a revision procedure. If you’re still unsatisfied with your results after recovery, a revision rhinoplasty may be needed to shorten the nose and refine the tip to achieve the desired result.
Due to the loss of structural support and scar tissue, it’s essential to remember that each subsequent nose surgery becomes more complex. The importance of experience, expertise, and artistry cannot be overstated. I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon with expertise in rhinoplasty techniques. They will be able to oversee your recovery, review your surgical history, and suggest the best course of action to help you reach your aesthetic goals.

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

Revision rhinoplasty is always a difficult surgery. Often times the length can still be shortened, but it's important to see a few rhinoplasty experts for consultation that can do computer imaging at the same time. That way the surgeon can honestly tell you what can and can't be done.

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hi there! If you're at 6 months, I would continue to wait toward 10-12 months before considering any intervention, because swelling will continue to improve and the nose will settle. It is not terribly difficult to reduce the length of the nose. It depends largely on what was done during your prior surgery and how much cartilage you have left for any grafting which may be needed. Alarplasty can be repeated if there is excess. I would revisit with your surgeon about what options exist for you. If you're not comfortable or need more opinions, seek another. Hope this is useful to you!

Nose still long 6 months post op. How difficult is it to reduce the length? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Revision Rhinoplasty for Nasal Length

Answer: Revision Rhinoplasty for Nasal Length

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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Nose still long 6 months post op. How difficult is it to reduce the length? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Revision Rhinoplasty for Nasal Length

Answer: Revision Rhinoplasty for Nasal Length

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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