Correcting Nostril Asymmetry and Nasal Obstruction with Rib Cartilage

noselab
10월 10일
2분 분량

Correcting Nostril Asymmetry and Nasal Obstruction with Rib Cartilage: A Natural, Balanced Result

Hello, this is Dr. Cha-Young Kang, chief director of NOSELAB Clinic.

Today, I’d like to share a revision rhinoplasty case involving nostril asymmetry correction and severe nasal obstruction. The patient also sought a natural improvement in nasal balance without an overly sharp or high appearance.

Patient Concerns and Surgical Goals

The patient had two previous rhinoplasty procedures:

10 years ago: Implant-free rhinoplasty with septal and ear cartilage, plus alar base reduction.
4 years ago: Nostril lowering surgery with ear cartilage.

Preoperative design consultation photos for nostril asymmetry correction: frontal view, left oblique side view, and left side view — Preoperative design consultation photos: Frontal view, left oblique side view, and left side view.

Despite these surgeries, the patient continued to struggle with:

Short-appearing nose length
Nostril asymmetry (especially visible from below)
Nasal tip deviation to the right
Bulbous nasal tip
Severe nasal obstruction and chronic congestion

The patient’s priority was a natural, balanced nose with improved breathing.

Preoperative design consultation photos for nostril asymmetry correction: right side view, right oblique side view, and nostril view — Preoperative design consultation photos: Right side view, right oblique side view, and nostril view.

Surgical Plan and Rib Cartilage Reconstruction

Septal Reconstruction with Autologous Rib Cartilage – Corrected deviation, reinforced tip support, improved symmetry.
Implant-Free Dorsal Augmentation – Used rib cartilage only for a natural bridge and texture.
Nasal Tip Correction – Repositioned to center, refined bulbous tip, adjusted to subtle height.
Nasolabial Angle Adjustment – Lengthened nose and enhanced lateral profile.
Functional Correction – Addressed deviated septum and rhinitis, restored normal breathing.

Postoperative Results and Functional Improvement

Before and immediately after nostril asymmetry correction surgery: frontal view comparison — Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)

Frontal View: Corrected nostril asymmetry, centered nasal tip, symmetrical shape.

Before and after nostril asymmetry correction surgery: side view comparison — Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)

Side View: Natural length and smooth bridge with balanced nasolabial angle.

Before and after nostril asymmetry correction surgery: oblique side view comparison — Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)

Functional Outcomes: Resolved obstruction, improved airflow, reduced rhinitis symptoms.

Before and after nostril asymmetry correction surgery: base view comparison — Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)

Medical Insights

Preoperative Video / Immediate Postoperative Video

This case highlights the importance of structural correction in revision rhinoplasty. By reconstructing the septum with rib cartilage, we achieved long-term stability and avoided implant-related risks. Addressing both aesthetic and functional issues not only improved facial harmony but also enhanced the patient’s quality of life.

At NOSELAB Clinic, we are dedicated to providing safe, implant-free solutions that restore both form and function.

Thank you for reading.

— Dr. Cha-Young Kang, Chief Director at NOSELAB Clinic