I (63F) need nasal valve repair with grafts, and septoplasty for an s shaped septum. I already have a moderately wide nose with thick skin and Im concerned that adding a graft will make my nose look even wider. Can it be made thinner during surgery while the grafts are being placed?
June 17, 2025
Answer: Rhinoplasty Hello and thank you for your question. It really depends on your individual anatomy. Most likely your nose can be thinned while supporting the internal nasal valve to maintain a good airway. 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
Helpful
June 17, 2025
Answer: Rhinoplasty Hello and thank you for your question. It really depends on your individual anatomy. Most likely your nose can be thinned while supporting the internal nasal valve to maintain a good airway. 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
Helpful
June 19, 2025
Answer: Can My Nose Be Made Thinner While Undergoing Nasal Valve Repair and Septoplasty? This is a very valid concern, especially since you already have a naturally wide nose and thick skin. The good news is that nasal valve repair with grafts (such as spreader or batten grafts) and septoplasty are often performed as part of a broader procedure called septorhinoplasty; which combines functional correction with aesthetic refinement. With septorhinoplasty, it is indeed possible to:Improve breathing by repairing the valve and correcting the deviated septum At the same time, refine the nasal structure, including narrowing the bridge, reducing width, or adjusting tip definition — even in patients with thick skin An experienced surgeon can carefully place the necessary grafts to support the internal valve without significantly widening the external appearance. In some cases, camouflage or shaping techniques are used in combination with grafting to avoid additional bulk or asymmetry.If aesthetic refinement is important to you, be sure to discuss this clearly during your consultation. Planning both functional and cosmetic goals together is the best way to ensure a satisfying outcome. I hope this helps clarify your options. A consultation with a facial plastic surgeon experienced in complex septorhinoplasty would be beneficial. Güray Yeşiladalı, MD
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
June 19, 2025
Answer: Can My Nose Be Made Thinner While Undergoing Nasal Valve Repair and Septoplasty? This is a very valid concern, especially since you already have a naturally wide nose and thick skin. The good news is that nasal valve repair with grafts (such as spreader or batten grafts) and septoplasty are often performed as part of a broader procedure called septorhinoplasty; which combines functional correction with aesthetic refinement. With septorhinoplasty, it is indeed possible to:Improve breathing by repairing the valve and correcting the deviated septum At the same time, refine the nasal structure, including narrowing the bridge, reducing width, or adjusting tip definition — even in patients with thick skin An experienced surgeon can carefully place the necessary grafts to support the internal valve without significantly widening the external appearance. In some cases, camouflage or shaping techniques are used in combination with grafting to avoid additional bulk or asymmetry.If aesthetic refinement is important to you, be sure to discuss this clearly during your consultation. Planning both functional and cosmetic goals together is the best way to ensure a satisfying outcome. I hope this helps clarify your options. A consultation with a facial plastic surgeon experienced in complex septorhinoplasty would be beneficial. Güray Yeşiladalı, MD
Helpful 1 person found this helpful