Can the base of my columella along with the rest of my columella be raised? (Photos)

Question

Since my rhinoplasty 6 months ago my nostrils are retracted but also my columella shows more than I'd like and I dislike the angle. It used to fold inward, at 90 degrees from the base. Is it possible to adjust the base of the columella by lifting it up so it tucks between the nostrils? Would a columelloplasty work for this? I believe this occurred because my nose was de-projected, which subsequently required the angle of my nose to change. The columella, however, was not adjusted.

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, you can raise the base, but the position of the base of the columella is controlled by the nasal spine, which is a bony structure. It is hard to be precise, and over resection of the nasal spine leaves a deformity.  It is best to consult with more than one surgeon to get an idea of what is posssible in terms of risks and benefits.  You  need to be careful about making the nose look too stylized.

Vito C. Quatela, MD · Answer

It is important to know the specifics of your prior rhinoplasty surgery and to examine you to determine the best approach to address your concerns. The columella of your nose seems like it is “hanging,” meaning that the distance between the nostrils and the columella is greater than 4mm, and it also seems that the ala (the nostril) may be retracted. It is possible to shorten the columella by removing a small piece of cartilage as well to lengthen the ala so that the distance between the two decreases. To determine the appropriate approach for you, a facial plastic surgeon who has experience in revision rhinoplasty would be most helpful.

Richard Mark Winters, MD · Answer

you have alar notching/retraction which is sadly not unusual when tip cartilages are trimmed from above.... when these cartilages are left unsupported, nature hates a vacuum and the nostril margin hikes up

your columella appears properly positioned with a reasonable angle between the bottom of your nose and your upper lip.... a hanging columella' is a wholly different problem....

good luck...

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The Photographs demonstrate a hanging columella which can be reduced by removing excess skin and cartilage in that area.

Can the base of my columella along with the rest of my columella be raised? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Can the base of my columella along with the rest of my columella be raised?

Answer: Can the base of my columella along with the rest of my columella be raised?

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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Can the base of my columella along with the rest of my columella be raised? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Can the base of my columella along with the rest of my columella be raised?

Answer: Can the base of my columella along with the rest of my columella be raised?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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