How to fix my pointy nose when I smile ? (photos)

Question

I love my Nose when I don't smile but once I do it flares at the nostril and gets pointy at the tip. I would like to stay away from a nose job of possible wondering if there may be any other options to fix this problem ! Thanks

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos, I would recommend an alar base reduction. I would advise you to
schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon for a detailed
examination to discuss all possible treatment options and what your
expectations are.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.The harmony between facial parts makes us instinctively recognize the beauty... without knowing it, without defining it, just a perception that surprises and captivates us.In this regard, I suggest perform a Closed Rhinoplasty (without visible scars) to treat the tip, base and nasal bridge.With this procedure you get a delicate nose, better harmonize with your other facial features.Respectfully,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Everyones nostrils flare outward to some degree when they smile as the nostrils are attached to their cheeks.  Nostril flare can be improved by a alar base reduction but this would require a small surgery and you would like to avoid that as it would also change your nasal contour when not smiling.

Frank P. Fechner, MD · Answer

Because the nostrils insert into the cheeks, widening of the alar base will happen to all of us, in some more than others. Surgically, an alar base reduction could be considered BUT if you like your nose on repose, I would advocate against such a surgical procedure. Botox injections, as suggested, would not improve the flaring.

Sirius K. Yoo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Sometimes Botox to the depressor septi nasi muscle can prevent the tip from drooping with smiling.  It helps a little, but is less effective for the nostril flare.  The depressor septi can also be lysed with a small surgical procedure under local.  Often times though to prevent the nostril flare with smiling, the tip needs more stabilization and in my experience this can only be accomplished with rhinoplasty.  Some doctors may tell you that you could Botox the muscles that pull the cheeks and therefore the nostrils when you smile, but this can be very tricky and you would have to be prepared to have your smile tinkered with.  I generally recommend against this.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Some patients have an Active depressor septi ligament which pulls the tip down with smiling and animation. This ligament is usually  released at the time of rhinoplasty, but it can also be performed as a stand-alone procedure under local anesthesia.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

What you are describing is normal, and I would not recommend treatment to accommodate for changes with smiling.

Ivo Gwanmesia, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Thank you for your question.It sounds like you have very active depressor nares muscles. These muscles insert into the alar base and originate from your upper lip muscles.A potential non surgical solution would be to try some botox along the alar base adjacent to the columellar to see if this works. I would suggest you see only a surgeon to do this for you, as he/she would have a better understanding of the anatomy around your alar base region.Hope my answer helps.

How to fix my pointy nose when I smile ? (photos)

Answers (8)

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