1 year post op - why did my smile lines change after rhinoplasty and what can be done to correct this besides filler? (photos)

In your before photo, you appear to have more of a forced smile than in your after photo which makes your nasolabial folds appear deeper before surgery. In that regard, I feel like your nasal labial folds may appear better after surgery, or perhaps less deep. I hope this is helpful and thank you for your question. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Hello,

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photographs. Based on the images, I understand your concern about the change in the nasolabial lines following your rhinoplasty and alloplasty.

True restoration of the original shape of the nasolabial lines is technically not possible, as the alloplasty procedure can restrict the movement of the nostrils, affecting the natural contour of these lines. However, there are options to improve their appearance without using fillers.

One effective technique is subcision, which involves releasing the fibrous bands beneath the skin that contribute to the appearance of deep lines. This procedure can help to attenuate the visibility of the nasolabial lines, making them appear softer and less pronounced.

From your pre-operative photographs, it seems that your nasolabial lines had a slightly different shape and were softer. While subcision can produce a degree of softening of these lines, it is important to note that it will not change their general direction. This procedure can, however, provide a noticeable improvement in the overall appearance and smoothness of the nasolabial area.

Hello and thank you for your question. If the alar base reduction was done too tightly, it can cause more dramatic nasolabial folds. The best solution for this may be a small amount of Botox at the alar base. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon