How does a rhinoplasty surgeon use sutures to lift the tip of the nose?

Question

Can the tip of the nose be lifted with internal sutures, or is it necessary for the needle to pass through the outer layers of nasal skin? I am concerned about bizarre scarring and/or threads hanging from the tip of my nose. Thank you.

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

Lifting the tip of the nose is a standard part of rhinoplasty and does not involve external sutures. A variety of maneuvers will result in lifting the tip, but most frequently the procedure involves removing some of the distal septal cartilage (shortening it), often with removal of some soft tissue and mucosa as well. Sutures are part of the repair, but are all internal.

Michael A. Epstein, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.Lifting, or "rotating" the tip of the nose is a common maneuver in rhinoplasty involving manipulation of the cartilage and internal suturing.  All of the suturing is internal, so you shouldn't have any bizarre scars or threads at the end.  I recommend consulting with an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon who can explain the procedure in more detail based on your nose shape.  Some surgeons also have computer simulation to allow you to "see" your new nose, which is a helpful communication tool between the doctor and patient (we have the Vectra at our office).  Best of luck!Cheers,Dr. Michael EpsteinMAE Plastic SurgeryNorthbrook, IL

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

Reshaping of the nasal tip cartilages is done through the placement of internal sutures, usually through an open rhinoplasty method.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Tip elevation can occur as a result of a number of maneuvers using various suturing techniques as well as manipulating or trimming cartilage.  Best of luck.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Suture techniques were usually used to reduce the bulbous nasal tip.  Lifting the tip can also be accomplished with a variety of maneuvers during the rhinoplasty procedure without sutures.  For more information and many examples, please see the link and the video below

How does a rhinoplasty surgeon use sutures to lift the tip of the nose?

Answers (9)

Answer: Tip elevation

Answer: Tip elevation

Answer: Suture techniques to lift the nasal tip cartilages

Answer: Suture techniques to lift the nasal tip cartilages

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

How does a rhinoplasty surgeon use sutures to lift the tip of the nose?

Answers (9)

Answer: Tip elevation

Answer: Tip elevation

Answer: Suture techniques to lift the nasal tip cartilages

Answer: Suture techniques to lift the nasal tip cartilages

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.