Nose picking is a common habit that many individuals engage in, often due to various reasons such as allergies, nasal congestion, or psychological factors. While occasional nose picking may not have significant long-term effects on the shape of the nose, chronic nose picking can potentially lead to certain changes. In this article, we will explore the potential changes in nose shape caused by chronic nose picking from multiple angles.
1. Nasal Septum Deviation
Chronic nose picking can result in the displacement of the nasal septum, the thin wall that separates the two nasal passages. Constant trauma from picking can cause the septum to shift, leading to a deviated septum. This deviation can affect the overall symmetry and shape of the nose, resulting in a crooked or asymmetrical appearance.
A deviated septum may cause various problems such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and even frequent nosebleeds. The correction of a deviated septum usually requires surgical intervention, with the cost ranging from $3,000 to $7,000 in Australia, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the location of the medical facility.
2. Enlarged Nostrils
Repeated picking of the nose can lead to the enlargement of nostrils over time. The constant manipulation and stretching of the skin around the nostrils can result in the loss of elasticity, causing the nostrils to widen. This can alter the overall shape of the nose and make it appear flatter or more rounded.
While there are non-surgical methods available to reduce nostril size, such as injectable fillers or laser treatments, the most effective and long-lasting solution is a surgical procedure known as alarplasty. In Australia, the cost of alarplasty can range from $3,000 to $6,000, depending on the surgeon's experience and the geographical location of the clinic.
3. Nasal Bridge Depression
Prolonged and aggressive nose picking can cause the nasal bridge to develop a depressed or concave shape. Constant irritation and pressure on the nasal bones can lead to bone erosion and the formation of a depression or hump on the bridge of the nose. This can significantly alter the profile view of the face and affect overall facial harmony.
The correction of a depressed nasal bridge typically involves surgical interventions such as rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty. The cost of these procedures in Australia can range from $8,000 to $20,000, depending on the complexity of the surgery, the reputation of the surgeon, and the geographic location of the clinic.
4. Nasal Tip Deformation
Chronic nose picking can also result in the deformation of the nasal tip. The constant irritation, manipulation, and pressure applied to the tip of the nose can cause cartilage to weaken or shift, resulting in tip asymmetry, bulbous appearance, or drooping.
Correcting nasal tip deformations often requires surgical procedures such as tip rhinoplasty or complete rhinoplasty. The cost of these surgeries in Australia can range from $8,000 to $20,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's expertise, and the location of the clinic.
5. Scar Tissue Formation
Chronic nose picking can cause the formation of scar tissue within the nasal passages or on the external surface of the nose. Scar tissue can lead to nasal obstruction, alter the shape of the nose, and even worsen the effects of other potential changes mentioned earlier.
The treatment of scar tissue due to chronic nose picking may involve non-surgical options such as corticosteroid injections or topical creams. In severe cases, surgical removal or revision may be necessary, which can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $10,000 in Australia.
6. Swollen Nasal Tissues
Repetitive picking of the nose can lead to inflammation and swelling of the delicate nasal tissues. Enlarged blood vessels and tissue swelling can alter the overall shape of the nose and give it a puffy or swollen appearance.
To reduce nasal tissue swelling caused by chronic nose picking, various treatments may be recommended, including over-the-counter nasal sprays, saline washes, and avoiding triggering factors. The cost of these treatments can vary, but on average, nasal sprays in Australia can cost between $5 and $20.
7. Increased Risk of Infection
Chronic nose picking can damage the delicate tissues within the nose, creating open wounds and increasing the risk of infection. Infections, such as cellulitis or abscesses, can lead to further complications, including tissue damage, swelling, and changes in the shape of the nose.
The treatment of nose infections caused by chronic picking may involve antibiotics, wound care, and in severe cases, drainage or surgical intervention. The cost of infection treatment can vary depending on the severity and specific needs of the individual, ranging from $100 to $1,000 in Australia.
8. Psychological Effects
Chronic nose picking can have psychological effects on individuals, which may indirectly contribute to changes in nose shape. Stress, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive tendencies associated with chronic nose picking can lead to excessive picking, causing further trauma to the nasal structures and potentially exacerbating the physical changes mentioned previously.
Treating the psychological aspects of chronic nose picking often involves therapy or counseling sessions. The cost of therapy sessions in Australia can range from $100 to $250 per hour, depending on the therapist's qualifications and location of the clinic.
9. Self-Esteem and Social Implications
The physical changes in nose shape caused by chronic nose picking can have a significant impact on an individual's self-esteem and social interactions. The altered appearance of the nose may make individuals feel self-conscious or embarrassed, affecting their confidence and overall well-being.
Addressing the self-esteem and social implications of changes in nose shape often requires a comprehensive approach, including counseling, support groups, or aesthetic interventions if desired. The cost of addressing these aspects can vary greatly, depending on the specific needs and preferences of the individual.
10. Prevention and Treatment
Prevention and early treatment are crucial in minimizing the potential changes in nose shape caused by chronic nose picking. Adopting gentle nasal hygiene practices, such as using saline nasal sprays, keeping the nostrils moisturized, and avoiding triggering factors, can help reduce the urge to pick and prevent damage to the nasal structures.
If chronic nose picking has already caused changes in nose shape, seeking medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional or a plastic surgeon is recommended. They can evaluate the extent of the changes and recommend appropriate treatment options, ranging from non-surgical interventions to surgical procedures, depending on the specific needs and preferences of the individual.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can chronic nose picking lead to permanent changes in nose shape?
A: Yes, chronic nose picking can potentially cause permanent changes in nose shape, such as nasal septum deviation, enlarged nostrils, nasal bridge depression, nasal tip deformations, and scar tissue formation.
Q: Can non-surgical methods correct the changes in nose shape caused by chronic nose picking?
A: Non-surgical methods, such as injectable fillers or laser treatments, may help reduce certain changes, but for more significant alterations, surgical interventions are usually required.
Q: How can I prevent chronic nose picking?
A: To prevent chronic nose picking, adopting gentle nasal hygiene practices, keeping the nostrils moisturized, using saline nasal sprays, and addressing underlying causes such as allergies or nasal congestion is recommended.
References
1. American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
2. Mayo Clinic
3. Better Health Channel (Victoria State Government, Australia)
