What can I do for more symmetry in my nose, 9 years post-op primary rhinoplasty and alarplasty (photos)

Question

I had a rhinoplasty dorsal hump removal and alarplasty nine years ago. right nostril is higher and wider and the whole right side is more bulbous/wonky somehow. What would a surgeon recommend here for a more symmetrical/better looking nose?

Stephen J. Pincus, MD · Answer

It appears that too much alar wall was removed from your left nostril, which shortened and straightened it, with a concomitant loss of curvature. It would seem that you would benefit from a composite (skin + cartilage) ear graft to lengthen it and restore the curvature as it attaches to the face.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

It is almost impossible to achieve nostril symmetry. Any attempts can lead to taking too much off one side and then going back to take some more from the other side. As this goes on permanent scarring with poor healing can lead to worst asymmetry than before the surgery was done. 
Also, it is very important to remember that nobody will look at your nostrils from below. From the front view the nostrils don't look as asymmetric as from below. Unless the asymmetry is really obvious and disfiguring, it should be left alone.

Regards
Dr. J

What can I do for more symmetry in my nose, 9 years post-op primary rhinoplasty and alarplasty (photos)

Answers (2)