Rhinoplasty For Crooked Nose

Crooked nose imbalances facial harmony. It is considered not only an aesthetic defect but also has some functional setbacks. Experts have come up with a solution to get rid of this nuisance called ‘rhinoplasty for a crooked nose.

This article reviews the causes and problems of a crooked nose. It also explains the rhinoplasty procedure, healing and benefits of getting it.

What Is A Crooked Nose?

A nose is presumed crooked if the dorsal nasal bridge deviates from the midline. It ruins the overall symmetry of the nose and the face. The deviation from the midline could be minor and present on just a small part of the nasal bridge.

However, it could also be deviated throughout the whole length till the nose tip. In most cases deviated nasal septum or misalignment of nasal bone are the reasons for the twisted appearance of the nose.

What Are The Causes Of A Crooked Nose?

Various factors that contribute to this nasal asymmetry are as follows:

• Genetics: Genetics play an important role in how you look. Sometimes crooked noses run in families.
• Congenital: Some people are born with a mild to moderate degree of deviated septum and crooked nasal bridge appearance.
• Trauma To The Nose: Any physical trauma such as hard blow on outside of the nose, misaligns the bone and cartilage. It is one of the major reasons for nasal deformity. Childhood falls with nasal fractures come in the same category.
• Complication Of Previous Rhinoplasty: A former nose job if not done correctly can give nasal deviation appearance. Drooping and sinking of the nose after surgery contributes to crooked nose deformity.
• Deviated Nasal Septum: The nasal septum dividing the internal nose may be deviated more on one side than another.
• Racial Factors: Hispanics are more prone to have crooked noses than Black races.

Problems Associated With Crooked Nose

Crooked nose is not only considered an aesthetic deformity. It has downsides to the functional aspects of the nose as well. Here are some issues that are faced by people with misaligned nasal bridge:

• Self consciousness
• Asymmetrical nose
• Imbalance facial harmony
• Breathing difficulties
• Nasal congestions
• Recurrent sinus infections
• Post nasal drip
• Anosmia (loss of smell sensation)

What Are The Benefits Of Rhinoplasty For A Crooked Nose?

Advantages of septorhinoplasty are not only cosmetics. It also improves nose functions such as:

• Boosted self esteem
• Symmetrical features
• Improved breathing function
• Alleviation of sinusitis symptoms
• Better sleep

Cartilage Grafting

Sometimes, septoplasty alone is not fruitful enough to correct the misalignment. In such cases, a cartilage graft is useful. The existing septal cartilage is straightened along with the placement of additional cartilage graft to enhance the midline positioning.

Osteotomy

Osteotomy refers to bone cutting and sculpting. It is the most important step of the procedure, performed in three ways:

• Low-Low: Bone cutting is performed adjacent to the maxilla throughout.
• Low-High: This osteotomy begins with a low approach ( close to maxilla) but goes high in its upper part.
• High-High: The upper and lower ends of the cutting line are higher but only the midpart curves are low near the maxilla.

Nasal Tip Correction

If the nose tip diverges to either side of the middle, then nasal tip correction becomes necessary. It is done through endonasal technique. Meticulous surgical techniques are used to manipulate the irregular lateral cartilages of the tip. This is done once the mid septal cartilage is perfectly aligned.

Septorhinoplasty For A Crooked Nose Recovery Time

Recovery after rhinoplasty depends upon the technique used and the aftercare. Here is an estimated timeline for healing:

• Week 1-2: You may experience pain and swelling. Ice packs and painkillers help you during this period. External and internal splints are removed in about a week.
• Week 2-6: Initial swelling reduces significantly. You may resume a normal routine but avoid any heavy weightlifting and strenuous exercises.
• After Week 6: You can resume normal physical activities but avoid any trauma to the nose. Your nose starts to take its final form. Some minor irregularities are normal for up to year due to continuous healing.