What can I do to fix a large gap on my nostril? (Photos)

Question

About 7 months ago I developed what I thought was just a blemish on the inside of my left nostril. I was concerned with the location of the blemish so I visited my dermatologist who ended up putting me on a antibiotic. The blemish seemed too be getting better but then returned even worse and more painful. I decided to pop it too release some pressure but it ended up causeing a large gap in my nostril. Will this heal on its own? If not, what can I do to fix this? Thanks so much!

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. Surgical treatment for nasal deformities relies on the use of grafts. This is a very complex procedure, so I recommend scheduling a consultation with a reputable board-certified facial plastic surgeon, particularly one who specializes in nasal reconstruction. Such experts will have a deep understanding of both the functional and aesthetic elements of the nose, ensuring you achieve the most natural-looking results without compromising nasal functions. During your consultation, your surgeon can assess your nose, recommend the best approach, and ensure the best possible outcome.

Gurkan Kayabasoglu, MD · Answer

Hello. You've been very unlucky. However, it is impossible for this situation to improve on its own. It may even contract a little more, that is, shrink and worsen. Unfortunately, a major surgery awaits you. I suggest you to have regional rotational flaps or a skin composite graft.  I’m the only triple board-certified facial plastic surgeon all around Europe. I’m just focused on this issue. I am a doctor who goes to almost every country in the world and explains my techniques to important doctors with the congress invitations I receive, so I am definitely the only doctor who can perform your operation very comfortably and successfully. You can get more detailed information about me, ask all questions about your case and sending your photos to my assistants at the number on my profile (+90 539 204 40 90). You can also book an online consultation and discuss your problems with me. With all respect.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

I would recommend a composite skin/cartilage graft from your ear to recreate the soft tissue triangle that you lost due to the infection.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Small but visible deformity of the tip after scaring! It requires very complex reconstruction involving placement of cartilage and, most likely skin, graft (composite graft), taken from behind the ear. This type of reconstruction requires above average expertise, so be very careful when selecting your surgeon. Good luck.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

This will definitely require surgical closure of a the defect. It’s hard to tell if you are actually missing tissue there. I would get a few different opinions on ways to repair it. It’s a very tricky area

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
From your photos, I note a full thickness cleft at the medial aspect of the left alar wing of your nose. I can't determine if there is missing tissue as I don't have a clear view of the size of the opposite nostril, or if this is the sequela of a traumatically induced dehiscence of an infected wound where there was no tissue loss. 
If not previously performed, the area must be biopsied to rule out the presence of an underlying malignancy. If it proves negative and there has not been loss of tissue, nostril repair may be accomplished by excising the intervening scar and re-establishing anatomic continuity.
If there is missing tissue, a wedge shaped full thickness skin graft (with cartilage) can be harvested from the ear and placed to bridge the defect.
Visit a board certified plastic surgeon for evaluation and discussion.
Best wishes...