Can the nose tip become droopy?

Question

I started to notice that my nose tip has started to droop slightly. Is that possible and what are the treatments for this? I've lost some volume from my face as well, don't know if that matters.

John Layke, DO, FACS · Answer

As we age the tip of the nose naturally droops. However there is also a muscle that can cause the tip to droop when you smile. My suggestion is to seek out a board-certified plastic surgeon who can accurately examine your nose, create a simulation based off of what your nose could look like after surgery, and formulate a plan tailored to your needs. Good luck!

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

There are several techniques I have used over the past 35 years to elevate the droopy nasal tip. The excess tip cartilage can be removed and a portion of the septum can be removed, etc. an  experienced surgeon will know which technique will give you what you want without creating unwanted problemat at the same time. See an experienced surgeon who does natural looking noses like yours without the overdone look.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The rhinoplasty procedure can address the drooping tip with a combination of techniques applied to the nasal tip cartilages with a  closed rhinoplasty approach. For many examples, please see the link and video below

Ron Hazani, MD, FACS · Answer

As we age the ligament support of the lower lateral cartilages weakens. Subsequently the tip tends to droop with aging. I use various suture techniques to stabilize the tip during rhinoplasty.

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

The tip can droop as a person ages. If your nasal features concern you enough to do something
about improving the cosmetic appearance of your nose it can be refined with an artistically performed natural appearing rhinoplasty.I would suggest you find a
plastic surgeon with extensive nasal surgery experience who is certified by the
American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the American Society
for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) or a facial plastic surgeon (ENT) that
you trust and are comfortable with. You should discuss your concerns with that
surgeon in person.

Additional information
about the procedure will help you decide if it is a procedure that you want to
pursue.

Robert Singer, MD FACS

La Jolla, California

Kimberly Lee, MD · Answer

As we age, our skin unfortunately loses elasticity which causes sagging and drooping in our face.  In conjunction with volume loss, this leads to an aging appearance.  This is likely contributing to the drooping you have noticed in your nasal tip which can give an elongated appearance that wasn't present before.  There are several options to help rejuvenate the facial and nasal appearance, both surgical and non-surgically.  Please consult with a board certified specialist who can assist you with achieving the results you seek.  3-dimensional computer imaging can help you visualize what you may look like afterwards.

Brian J. Reagan, MD · Answer

Yes, the nasal tip can droop with age.  Support structures can weaken over time.  A rhinoplasty can elevate the tip, and techniques such as a columellar strut can help maintain the tip elevation.  Seek out a true rhinoplasty expert, and seek multiple consultations.  All the Best.

Jason Litner, MD · Answer

Hi Bambi,It is relatively common for the nasal tip to start drooping over time. We find that even patients in their twenties may start to notice this type of change. Tip drop happens because the ligaments that hold the tip cartilages in place start to stretch over time. This can become more noticeable in those who have softer tip cartilages and poorer tip support to begin with. This can be corrected with a rhinoplasty to lift the tip and restore tip support so that this is not an ongoing issue as you age. Restoring facial volume can be done at the same time with facial fillers or fat transfer. An in-person consultation will help you to better review the options available and make the best choice for you.Warm regards,Jason Litner

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

Nasal tip droop is not uncommon and results from aging as well as a strong nasal depressor muscle. A consultation would be very helpful to give you definitive results.

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

Yes, the tip does become droopy (under-rotated) as we age which can make the nose appear to grow and become elongated.  If you are happy with the size and shape, of the nasal tip, the tip can be rotated upward using a modified tip-plasty without requiring a full Rhinoplasty.  Hope this helps.

Can the nose tip become droopy?

Answers (10)

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