February 10, 2025
When Rhinoplasty Goes Wrong: How to Recognize and Fix a Botched Nose Job
Aesthetic regret is real—especially when it comes to rhinoplasty.
A nose job should enhance your facial harmony, not leave you feeling self-conscious or struggling to breathe. But sometimes, the results don’t turn out as planned. Whether it’s an uneven bridge, pinched nostrils, or difficulty breathing, a botched rhinoplasty can be devastating.
Dr. Nima Shemirani, a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, sees patients daily who need revision surgery after unsatisfactory results elsewhere. With nearly 8,000 facial procedures performed, he understands the physical and emotional toll a failed nose job can take. Here’s what to know about botched rhinoplasty—how it happens, how to spot the signs, and what can be done to fix it.
What Causes a Botched Nose Job?
A botched rhinoplasty isn’t just about aesthetics—it can impact function, too. The most common reasons a nose job goes wrong include:
Inexperienced Surgeons – Rhinoplasty is one of the most complex plastic surgeries, requiring an artistic eye and technical precision. Poor technique can result in asymmetry, excessive cartilage removal, or a collapsed nasal structure.
Poor Surgical Planning – Rushing into surgery without a detailed approach can lead to imbalances that disrupt the nose’s natural proportions.
Aggressive Tissue Removal – Over-resection of cartilage can leave the nose looking pinched or collapsed. This is especially common in older surgical techniques, which lacked the precision of modern approaches like Piezo ultrasonic rhinoplasty.
Healing Complications – Some patients are prone to excessive scar tissue or unpredictable healing, which can distort results over time.
Miscommunication – When a patient’s aesthetic goals don’t align with a surgeon’s execution, disappointment is inevitable. Proper consultations—including digital imaging and clear discussions—are essential.
Signs Your Nose Job Needs a Do-Over
Not every rhinoplasty result ages well. If your nose has changed over time—or looked off from the start—here are red flags that could signal the need for a revision:
Asymmetrical nostrils – If one nostril sits noticeably higher or is significantly smaller than the other, structural issues may be to blame.
Pinched or collapsed tip – Over-resection of cartilage can cause the tip of the nose to cave in, affecting both appearance and breathing.
Scooped or over-arched bridge – A bridge that’s been overly reduced (often called a “ski slope” deformity) can make the nose look unnatural.
Breathing difficulties – If you find yourself mouth breathing more after surgery, an internal obstruction—such as a deviated septum or collapsed airway—could be the culprit.
Residual bumps or irregularities – A well-performed rhinoplasty should leave the bridge smooth and refined. If bumps persist, surgical refinements may be needed.
According to the Expert
In a recent TikTok video, Dr. Nima breaks down the most common signs of a botched rhinoplasty. Watch below to see real patient concerns and expert insights.
@drnima Signs you may need a revision rhinoplasty 👃 #rhinoplasty #nosejob #revisionrhinoplasty
How to Fix a Botched Nose Job
The good news? A bad rhinoplasty isn’t permanent. Our surgeons specialize in revision rhinoplasty, using cutting-edge techniques to restore both form and function. Here’s how it works:
Revision Rhinoplasty – A corrective surgery designed to refine previous results, often requiring advanced grafting techniques to rebuild structure. Dr. Nima is among the few U.S. surgeons who perform closed revision rhinoplasty, which minimizes scarring and speeds up recovery.
Piezosurgery – Unlike traditional tools, ultrasonic Piezo technology sculpts bone with precision, reducing trauma and post-op swelling. It’s a game-changer for those looking for a smoother, more controlled correction.
Non-Surgical Fixes – In some cases, subtle irregularities can be camouflaged with dermal fillers. Non-surgical rhinoplasty is an option for those who want temporary refinement without going under the knife again.
How to Avoid a Botched Nose Job in the First Place
If you’re considering rhinoplasty, choosing the right surgeon is key. A few non-negotiables:
- Look for a specialist – Your best bet is a facial plastic surgeon who performs rhinoplasty daily, not a general plastic surgeon who does it occasionally.
- Check credentials – Board certification matters. Dr. Nima is a founding member of the California Rhinoplasty Society and a member of the Rhinoplasty Society—both indicators of elite-level expertise.
- Review their portfolio – Every surgeon has a signature style. Browse before-and-after photos to ensure their aesthetic aligns with yours.
- Ask about technology – Techniques like Piezo ultrasonic rhinoplasty reduce the risk of over-resection and asymmetry.
- Have realistic expectations – A skilled surgeon will be honest about what’s possible, ensuring you get natural, harmonious results—not an exaggerated “Instagram nose.”
Final Thoughts
A botched rhinoplasty isn’t the end of the road—expert revision surgery can restore confidence and function. If your nose job didn’t turn out as planned, schedule a consultation with Dr. Nima Shemirani at Eos Rejuvenation. With over 18 years of experience and a reputation for meticulous, natural-looking results, he can help you achieve the outcome you originally envisioned.
Ready to fix your nose? Contact Eos Rejuvenation today to explore your options.
Located in Beverly Hills | 📞 (310) 263-8660
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