Columella, Can It Be Pulled Back Down?

Question

can my columella be pulled back down? the length from the front and upturned tip looks terrible. I want to revert back to way it was. How can this be done?? see picture... (From the front, tip looks worse than side view) just want to know how it can be done... really appreciate your input

John M. Hilinski, MD · Answer

The answer is - yes in some cases. The columella can be lengthened by adding cartilage to this area to bring the columella down (or out). Can it be done to the where your nose used to be? Possibly. Make sure you consult with a revision rhinoplasty expert.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Yes the length of the nose can be increased and the upturned tip can be lowered. Part of this will be based upon what was done during the first surgery with regard to suture techniques, if any. Cartilage grafts can be used to extend the length and lower the tip. Find a board certified plastic surgeon with ELITE credentials who performs hundreds of rhinoplasties each year. Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

The columella can be pushed back down by replacing what was removed to retract it...cartilage at the end of the caudal septum. A cartilage graft added to the end of the septum can move the columellar soft tissue in front of it forward. (down) An alternative approach is an onlay graft on the caudal end of the medial footplates of the lower alar cartilages.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

The nose can be lengthened after your rhinoplasty with cartilage grafts. You do not mention when your surgery was done. Immediately after surgery temporary swelling may cause this look. Wait at least 6-9 months after the original operation before considering a revision.

Columella, Can It Be Pulled Back Down?

Answers (4)