Nose too narrow after rhinoplasty, how do I add width/volume back? (Photos)

Question

I got a rhinoplasty in the beginning of the year. The problem is that my nose is too narrow /small for my liking. It took a lot of my ethnic features. I’ve been looking into fillers / fat transfer to add some volume back but I’m scared of the risk. Also don’t want to be put under general anesthesia again. Also will tip dropping help my nostrils to flare out some ? Top pic is current.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

It's understandable that you're hesitant to undergo another surgery or general anesthesia. It's best to discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon who performed your rhinoplasty. They will be able to evaluate your nose and recommend the most suitable approach for achieving your desired outcome.

Regarding the possibility of adding volume to your nose, your surgeon may suggest either fillers or fat transfer. Both options have their own risks and benefits, and your surgeon can provide you with detailed information on what to expect. It's important to note that fillers are temporary and require maintenance injections, while fat transfer is a more long-lasting solution.

As for the possibility of tip dropping helping to flare out your nostrils, this is something that can be discussed with your surgeon during a consultation. Depending on the specific characteristics of your nose, tip-plasty may or may not be recommended.

In terms of preparing for any potential procedure, it's important to follow your surgeon's pre-operative instructions closely, such as avoiding certain medications or supplements that could interfere with the procedure or recovery. Additionally, following a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking can all contribute to a smoother recovery. It's also important to arrange for a support system to assist you during the recovery period.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. When recovering from rhinoplasty, it's important to remember that the nose can continue to change throughout the following year. Being that your surgery was only a few months ago, you’re likely still experiencing some swelling that will significantly impact your ability to see your final result. It’s also not uncommon for surgeons to over-rotate the nose tip upward since it generally drops as the nose begins to heal, which is another reason to wait before assessing your results. After a full recovery period, it is possible to change the shape and size of your nose and restore volume with dermal fillers, though revision rhinoplasty would yield more long-term results.

Keep in mind that each subsequent nose surgery becomes more complex due to the loss of structural support, scar tissue, and other factors. 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 review your surgical history, oversee your recovery, and help you decide on the best course of action.

Selcuk Inanli, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question.I have checked your photos and your nose looks great in general. I understand your concern about the nostrils and the volume. In order to add width and volume back I don't recommend you filler or any other temporary procedure since there are really high risks.I can understand that you don't want to undergo an other surgery with general anesthesia but it is necessary if you are looking to add volume and width (since cartilage reconstruction would be needed).Best regards!

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

Adding an injectable filler will give you a temporary fix in terms of the width and projection of your nose. However, getting the tip to rotate downward is difficult with injectables of any kind. Fat transfer to the nose is not a standard treatment for revision rhinoplasty. In order to truly rotate the nasal tip and add width back to the dorsum it is likely that you would need cartilage grafting and manipulation.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

It's important to wait at least one year after your primary rhinoplasty before embarking on another procedure. A full set of facial photographs from all angles are required to make a determination about how best to proceed, in addition to a copy of the operative report to find out what maneuvers were performing during the first surgery. It's critical to know how much cartilage you have left over on the inside of your nose for grafting purposes for use as spreader grafts to give you additional width.

Nose too narrow after rhinoplasty, how do I add width/volume back? (Photos)

Answers (5)

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