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

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.

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

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