Should i seek a septoplasty or rhinoplasty for asymmetrical nostrils? (Photo)

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your photograph, you may benefit from a rhinoplasty to help correct your nostril asymmetry. Septoplasty can safely be performed at the same time. With good surgical technique, you could have an outstanding result. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

external nasal asymmetry can be caused by a number of factors including septal asymmetry, positioning of the upper and lower cartilages of the nose, prior trauma and nasal bone asymmetry, among other things. A septoplasty, in isolation, is typically done for functional concerns alone. If patients have a significant degree of obstruction, removing a portion of the asymmetric septum can alleviate the breathing obstruction. If however, external asymmetry is a major concern of yours, this is best addressed through a combination septorhinoplasty. You clearly have deviation of the caudal septum, however in this single view it is difficult to fully assess your nasal anatomy.
Removing the asymmetric portion of the septum and re-aligning it, in combination with repositioning and reshaping the nasal cartilages is the best way to address the external asymmetries you are seeing. Find a well trained plastic surgeon with advanced training in rhinoplasty who can critically evaluate your anatomy and come up with a tailored surgical plan suited for your anatomy and goals.
Sean Fisher, MDAesthetic Plastic SurgeonSeattle, WA