Nostrils Pull Up when Smile?

Question

When I smile my nostrils pull up too high on the sides. I would simply like them to pull to the side, not up. I am aware that a surgeon can cut the depressor septi muscle to stop the base from pulling down, but my base stays the same, just the nostrils pull up. Is there a muscle that can be cut to stop the nostrils from pulling up when smiling? Or is there a type of graft that can be put into place that will allow the nostrils to spread to the side when smiling, but will stop them from pulling up?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Photos or an exam would really be necessary to provide you with the best advice. If you feel your nostrils are "pulling up," they may be naturally receding. Cartilage grafts can be placed in the nose to improve the appearance of your nostrils. A graft called a composite graft may help. There is not a muscle you can cut to stop the nostrils from pulling up when smiling. Depending on the needs of the patient, cutting the depressor septi muscle may be a beneficial option, but this is not something that would help in your case. From here, I would recommend a consult with a board certified surgeon in your area. Look for the following when seeking out a surgeon:

	1) Credentials
	2) Fellowship training
	3) Board certification

	I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck!

Jeffrey Epstein, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately there is little that can be done to prevent the actions of the several levator muscles of the nose from pulling up on the nostrils.

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Nostrils Pull Up when Smile?

Answers (2)

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