Will uneven nostrils and leaning of the nose after a rhinoplasty correct itself?

Question

I am almost 5 months post-op and my nostrils are still uneven and do not seem to be evening out. I am unhappy with it and am wondering what could have caused this and what are the chances it will even up?

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

I read your concern and reviewed the photos you posted. Your photos do not appear to demonstrate significant nostril asymmetry, and your nose does not appear to lean off center. You should address your concerns with your surgeon or consider getting a second opinion from a certified, reputable rhinoplasty specialist near you. You can check abfprs.org to find a list of local certified facial plastic surgeons.

	I hope this is helpful for you.

	Regards from NJ.

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It’s not unusual for patients to have small amounts of nasal asymmetry following rhinoplasty surgery.  In the vast majority of cases, nostril asymmetry is related to pre-operative asymmetry which may have been unrecognized. 
            Although your pictures suggest some minor asymmetry, most surgeons and patients would consider this an excellent result.  It’s important to be patient, your nostril asymmetry may become even less noticeable as your swelling resolves.  In the interim, it’s important to maintain good communication with your plastic surgeon.

Colin Pero, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately, nostril asymmetry is a known risk of rhinoplasty.  Your nostrils are a bit asymmetric but it's pretty minor in my opinion.  Have you discussed this with your surgeon?  Depending on what techniques were used, there may be some improvement possible with a minor revision.  Prior to that, there may be some improvement available via stenting the smaller nostril open at night or by performing exercises to stretch the nostril in certain ways.  It's tough to tell without examining you if that is a good option.  Good luck.

Michael L. Schwartz, MD · Answer

It's not uncommon to have some asymmetry in this area especially if it was there before. You are looking good though and should wait for more healing to occur.

Maurice M. Khosh, MD · Answer

I can notice the assymetry because you mentioned it, but over all, the nostrils are not significatly different. I suggest you wait a full year before doing any procedure.

Will uneven nostrils and leaning of the nose after a rhinoplasty correct itself?

Answers (7)

Answer: Assymmetry

Answer: Assymmetry

Answer: Nostril assymerty after rhinoplasty

Answer: Nostril assymerty after rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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Will uneven nostrils and leaning of the nose after a rhinoplasty correct itself?

Answers (7)

Answer: Assymmetry

Answer: Assymmetry

Answer: Nostril assymerty after rhinoplasty

Answer: Nostril assymerty after rhinoplasty

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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.