Is it possible to lift the nostrils and change their angle? (Photo)

Question

I have a very upturned nose, I actually hate it. I was wondering if it was possible to lift the nostrils angle so that my nose is closer to being 90 degrees. Also, it is very round at the tip, which I would like slimmed down. So, my question is, could my nose be slimmed and lifted, I guess. (Also, planning & saving for a chin implant.)

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Already one colleague has misunderstood your request for "lifting the nostrils" to mean elevation of the nasal tip. I believe that you are asking if the lateral part of your nostrils (the ala-cheek interface) can be "raised" to give the appearance of a dropped tip. Plastic surgeons call this the nasolabial angle, and normally it is about 95-100 degrees for a normal youthful look. 90 degrees or less gives a "dropped" or beak-like tip for which the nasal tip is raised to give somewhat the look you dislike. So this area requires careful measurement and discussion.If I read your question properly, I think you are asking for a longer nose, more refined nasal tip, and less nostril show ("piggy nose"). You are right to also consider a chin implant for better facial balance and harmony.Personal discussion at the time of a complimentary consultation would be my best recommendation. Then, an appropriate surgical plan can be formulated to take into account your goals and what can be achieved surgically to best achieve or come as close to your desired look as possible. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Your tip can be brought down, and your nose can be lengthened.  I perform these surgeries with closed technique
 to preserve the structure of the nose and minimize visible scarring.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Stephen J. Ronan, MD, FACS · Answer

The angle that the bottom of your nose makes with you lip determines the length of the nose.  In men, we usually set it at 95-100 degrees.  In women, 100-105.  A overly long nose (witch's nose) has an angle <90.  A short nose (Miss Piggy) would be too large an angle.  In your case, lengthening your nose, refining your tip and adjusting your width would likely achieve the result you want.Follow the link below and see column 1, row 1 for another man with a shortened nose.  Lengthening the nose made him more masculine.  Good luck.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The photographs demonstrate an already upturned tip, so lifting the nostrils will only lift the tip even more and give more nostril show. Lifting the nostrils are only used for patients with a down turned tip. For many examples of lifting the nostrils for a downturned tip, please see the link below

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

The short answer is YES your nasal angle can be changed and your tip refined just as your chin can be enhanced.  This all could be accomplished during one operation so see some specialists in your areaDr Corbin

Is it possible to lift the nostrils and change their angle? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: rhinoplasty to lift the nostrils for a down turned tip

Answer: rhinoplasty to lift the nostrils for a down turned tip

Answer: Nasal shape

Answer: Nasal shape

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Is it possible to lift the nostrils and change their angle? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: rhinoplasty to lift the nostrils for a down turned tip

Answer: rhinoplasty to lift the nostrils for a down turned tip

Answer: Nasal shape

Answer: Nasal shape

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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.