My septum is too long. Can it be moved to the same height as the nostrils? (Photo)

Question

Fact number one - my nose is crooked and long, and i know this can be fixed to some extent. Second, the bottom of my nose, place where septal cartilage meets the nasal spine (i did some nose anatomy but i'm most likely wrong here, so please correct me) seem and feels to be to low. It feels like it is pushing my lip down when i talk or smile. Can it be move to the same height as the nostrils? Is this something that can be fixed? If so, how, and is it risky and complicated. Thank you

Steven M. Denenberg, MD · Answer

Click on the "Web reference" link, just below my response, or go here:
FacialSurgery.com/RealSelf/RealSelf_fanyfanzy.html
I made a computer morph of your nose, and an animation of the morph, to show the changes that should be possible for your nose in truly expert hands.Mainly, I elevated the tip of your nose. Quite a bit, actually. You can have that tip moved substantially and still have a strong, masculine nose.There are many reasons why the tip of the nose might sit low, like in your nose. One of those reasons is a long septum, and when the septum is part of the problem, the bottom end of the septum can be elevated, as you indicated.
You should understand that the changes I demonstrated in the morph require advanced techniques, techniques that most plastic surgeons cannot handle.  Be sure to read the section in the "Web reference" link on how to stay out of trouble while searching for a rhinoplasty surgeon.
I'd love to hear what you think of the morph. Did it seem to address your main concerns? In a nose like yours, the profile view, which you didn't post, is often the view that also shows the length of the nose rather well. At the *very* bottom of the Web reference page is a link to instructions on taking photos that are more comprehensive and useful for online consultations like this, in case you'd like a more complete evaluation.
Your nose is also a good example of why computer imaging is mandatory in rhinoplasty. You need to know exactly what the surgeon is planning to accomplish -- what features he thinks he can change, and by how much he thinks he can change them. When you see his goals, you'll know whether he has an eye for a beautiful nose, and whether he shares your opinion of what constitutes a beautiful nose. You'll also know whether the changes he proposes are enough to be meaningful to you, and whether he understands your wishes enough to address all of your priorities. But remember, you're not hiring him for his skills with the computer. The doctor must then show you his before and after photos to prove that he can actually accomplish what he draws on the computer.

Dane Barrett, MD · Answer

Yes.  This can all be accomplished fairly easily along with your other concerns with a rhinoplasty.  Making adjustments to the septum are often done to shorten the nose and alter the position of the nasal tip. When you go for a consultation with a rhinoplasty surgeon, make sure to voice all of the concerns you have with your nose so that you and your doctor can have an open conversation about what can be done to achieve your goals.  Best of luck!

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and photo.  The columella, or part of the nose between the nostrils that connects with your upper lip, is made up of primarily the inner parts (medial crura) of the cartilages that form your nostril (lower lateral cartilages).  The nasal septum can also be very close and part of the columella if the septum is long.  Shortening of the septum alone in this are is fairly easy to do and can be done with a small incision inside the nose.  This alone may or may not improve the columella since the lower lateral cartilage may also need to be addressed.  A rhinoplasty to help straighten your nose will allow all of these issues to be addressed.Good luck with your nose shaping journey.Dr. Remus Repta

My septum is too long. Can it be moved to the same height as the nostrils? (Photo)

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My septum is too long. Can it be moved to the same height as the nostrils? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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