Is it possible to shorten an already quite upturned nose?

Question

I've seen some surgeons explaining how it's possible to shorten a nose, but the patients are always people with a nose that appears to be drooping. I was wondering if it's possible to even slightly shorten a more neutral or upturned nose. I hear shortening the nose is usually work around the tip? I'd love an explanation of how it works and if it's only effective on downturned noses. Thanks!

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Please consider re-asking your question with a profile photo. If you shorten somebody's nose that has an obtuse nose lip angle, it may result in a retracted columella. I hope this helps! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Guray Yesiladali, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Yes, it is possible to shorten a more neutral or upturned nose, not just downturned ones. Shortening the nose generally involves reshaping the nasal tip and sometimes adjusting the septum and nasal cartilages to refine the length and improve proportions. Surgeons can use techniques like removing small portions of cartilage or repositioning the nasal tip to achieve the desired effect. The specific approach depends on the individual anatomy and desired outcome, so consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon is essential to discuss viable options for your specific case.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. It really depends on the length of your nose to start with. You certainly would not want to develop over exposure of nostrils by over Rotating the tip too much.. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Oakley Smith, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Hi , It is better for you to consult with a facial plastic surgeon who can examine you and discuss the surgical procedure if needed and the post op recovery 
process.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The angle between the nose and columella should be approximately 110 degrees.  If you shorten the nose  then it is possible that the angle will increase and look abnormal with more nostril show.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Shortening the nose entails shortening the cartilage and lining of the nose ( mucosa) in a strategic way so it gets held up from the inside. It’s very simple to do if needed but many noses are left too long. Cartilage grafting is not the answer in my hands

Robert Ciardullo, MD · Answer

Can you shorten and already upturned nose? any nose can be shortened and made more upturned. The question for a nose which is already short and upturned  is whether it should be further shortened and upturned. There are many ways to do this. most involve rotation of the tip upward by working on the Cartilage and lining of the Septum and Columella.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I suggest you have a few in person consultations with plastic surgeons in your community to get an assessment and better understanding of what is possible and what is not possible.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Is it possible to shorten an already quite upturned nose?

Answers (8)

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