Correcting Nostril Asymmetry: A Closed Rhinoplasty Case Study

Dr. Chayoung Kang
2024년 10월 28일
2분 분량

최종 수정일: 2025년 9월 29일

Hello, this is Dr. Cha-Young Kang, Director of Nose Lab Clinic.

Today, I’d like to share the story of a patient who struggled with significant nostril asymmetry. This case demonstrates not only the advancements in modern rhinoplasty but also the importance of a personalized, tailored approach for effective nostril asymmetry correction.

Initial Consultation and Nostril Asymmetry Correction Analysis

This patient’s rhinoplasty journey spans over 15 years. Her first procedure at another clinic created a “soft bridge” using ear cartilage, septal cartilage, and donor rib cartilage. Over time, her nose changed, leading to visible nostril asymmetry and a sunken right nostril floor.

Her concerns included:

Visible nostril asymmetry
Slightly upturned tip
Depressed bridge
High nasion (bridge starting point)

Pre-surgery consultation photos showing frontal, side, and oblique views of a patient with nasal asymmetry before nostril correction rhinoplasty. — Pre-Surgery Design Consultation Photos

Pre-Surgery Design Consultation Photos

Surgical Plan for Effective Nostril Asymmetry Correction

Correcting nostril asymmetry requires detailed surgical planning. Our approach included:

Septal reconstruction for strong support
Adjustment of alar cartilage
Replacement of old implants with safer, modern ones
Volume restoration of the depressed right nostril floor with ear cartilage or autologous rib cartilage

This plan allowed us to restore balance and improve both aesthetics and function.

Post-Surgical Results of Nostril Asymmetry Correction

Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)

Before and immediately after revision rhinoplasty: oblique side view highlighting smoother nasal bridge and natural contour. — Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)

Before and immediately after revision rhinoplasty: frontal view showing improved nasal symmetry and refined tip shape. — Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)

Before and immediately after revision rhinoplasty: nostril view showing corrected asymmetry and improved nostril balance. — Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)

Immediately following the surgery, we saw highly satisfying results. The nostril asymmetry had been greatly reduced, and her nose now displayed a more balanced appearance. From a profile view, the nasal bridge line appeared smooth and natural, and the previous protrusion of her lip profile was also softened, enhancing the overall harmony of her features.

Key Insights on Nostril Asymmetry Correction and Facial Balance

When correcting nostril asymmetry, the entire face must be considered. Perfect symmetry is not always ideal—sometimes a subtle imperfection creates a more natural, harmonious appearance.

This case highlights the importance of personalized planning, respecting each patient’s unique facial structure rather than pursuing a “perfect” nose.

For patients seeking nostril asymmetry correction or correction of an upturned nose, this example shows how careful planning and execution can restore balance and confidence.

At Nose Lab Clinic, we are committed to providing natural, safe, and functional results for every patient.

👉 Nose Lab Clinic performs all surgeries using a closed rhinoplasty approach.