Can rhinoplasty cause a lower smile line/change in lip position? (photos)

Question

Can rhinoplasty surgery cause a lower smile line (less upper teeth show)/change in lip position like the example below? Is this possibly just due to swelling or possibly a technique that has been used during surgery? I read that cutting the depressor septi nasi muscle may affect the smile/lip position for example but I'm not sure? Was just asking as I already have a relatively low smile line so was just concerned whether rhinoplasty could make it worse (cover the upper teeth)?

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

Yes, rhinoplasty may temporarily or permanently change your smile. You usually have to wait at least 6 months to see some improvement in the smile or even up to 18 months. Sometimes this may unfortunately be a permanent change.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

How long postoperative are you? We have seen tightness of the upper lip after rhinoplasty that can last for many months. To date, we have not operated on anyone who developed a demonstrable change in their smile by 12 months postoperative. Sit tight, and discuss with your surgeon. If there was no removal or cutting of your upper lip muscle, your smile may go back to normal. Hope this helps! Dr Joseph

Charles East, MBBS, FRCS · Answer

Hello, this is a good question.The circular muscle of the upper lip is suspended from the base of the nose by vertival muscles and ligaments. The lip position can be lifted or lowered (gummy smile) in rhinoplasty thereby altering teeth visibility, so its important to discuss this issue with your surgeon when planning an operation.

Celal Alioglu, MD · Answer

Hello you need make a small projection of your nose little need to up tip of the nose and make a straight your septum

Robert Ciardullo, MD · Answer

Rhinoplasty and upper lip position during smile: in general, a standard rhinoplasty does not have a permanent effect on the amount of tooth “show“ during A smile. However most people do experience some swelling and stiffness of the upper lip in the early postop period, which could last from a few to several weeks. There is a muscle called the depressor Nasi septi which some surgeons deliberately cut in people with very down plunging tips to cause an elevation of the nasal tip. However even when this muscle is cut it off and re-attaches and regain its function. In order to have a permanent significant effect on the amount of tooth “show“ one must cut and remove a portion of the muscle. this is only done very rarely and would usually be discussed ahead of time with the patient if it is planned.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

No, a rhinoplasty procedure involves altering the cartilage and bone in your nose. Releasing the depressor septi ligament simply prevents the tip of the nose from drooping down dynamically when you smile. It has no bearing on your lip and how much of your teeth that show

Can rhinoplasty cause a lower smile line/change in lip position? (photos)

Answers (6)

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