One side of my nose is flat/caved in. What would you recommend? (photos)

Question

I'm not sure if it's relevant, but I had the right side of my nose pierced about 4 years ago for about 4 months. Two years ago, I woke up one morning and the right side of my nose appeared to be flat. By touch, I can feel it's caved in. I have had no cosmetic surgery, but I am considering it because it makes me self conscious when I know lighting cast shadows and make it stand out!

Michael T. Somenek, MD · Answer

It appears from your photo that your lower lateral cartilages that produce the structure and shape to your nasal tip are misshapen. The right side is more of a concave shape which is producing the shadowing and depression on that side.  It is difficult to say if the piercing contributed to this. Regardless, this is treatable and involves using cartilage grafts that would be harvested from the nasal septum and placed with the lower lateral cartilages to create a more symmetric appearance.

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

The nasal areas that you described and
would like improved can be addressed with an artistically performed nasal surgery (rhinoplasty) and possible septoplasty.Keep in mind that following the advice from
a surgeon on this or any other website who proposes to tell you exactly what to do based
on a limited two dimensional photo without examining you, physically feeling
the tissue, assessing your desired outcome, taking a full medical history, and
discussing the pros and cons of each operative procedure would not
be in your best interest. I would suggest you find a plastic surgeon certified
by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the American
Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) or facial plastic surgeon (otolaryngologist) with extensive experience in performing cosmetic nasal surgery that
you trust and are comfortable with. You should discuss your concerns with that
surgeon in person.Robert Singer, MD  FACSLa Jolla, California

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The  photograph demonstrates an inverted  lower lateral cartilage that is concave, rather than convex like the opposite side. A rhinoplasty procedure can address making the changes necessary to make the nose more symmetrical. This would involve harvesting a cartilage graft from inside the nose and placing the graft in the concave area to match the opposite side of the nasal tip. For many examples of rhinoplasty, please see the link and video below

Stephan Finical, MD · Answer

The cartilage that supports the right side of your nose is warped. This usually can be fixed with a rhinoplasty. A surgeon would be able to assess your nose and offer a plan for operative improvement.

Joseph Shvidler, MD · Answer

It is possible that you have developed some scar tissue over the lower alar cartilage, and it has partially collapsed. It is important to determine if you have breathing problems or valve compromise. If there are no breathing problems, a simple office procedure can be performed by taking Some ear cartilage from behind your ear and implanting it over the concavity. If you have breathing issues, this may require a more extensive procedure. It is best to find an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon who deals with breathing problems.Good Luck!Dr. Joe

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

The problem seen in the submitted photo can be corrected with a rhinoplasty so it is fixable and undoubtedly related to the piercing Dr Corbin

Ronald V. DeMars, MD (Retired) · Answer

There are surgical procedures that can help regain your lost shape so see a consultant for the complex explanation. You can also get a temporary fix with filler injections.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

Whether the asymmetry go your nose is secondary to scar tissue or just the contour, position, or quantity of cartilage this can be addressed with rhinoplasty surgery. Be sure to consult with an experienced surgeon because your nose will be difficult with your thick skin and previous trauma.

One side of my nose is flat/caved in. What would you recommend? (photos)

Answers (8)

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