Will my Rhinoplasty Change the Shape and Proportion of my Lips?

The lips will have the same shape and size, but will be slightly longer unless the surgeon fixes the lip to keep it from dropping. See an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon for the best result.

I read your concern. Without seeing your photo, I'm not exactly certain what you've been advised. If you have a "tension lip" from a long septum or prominent nasal spine, this may be improved at the time of Rhinoplasty Surgery. This type of improvement is easily replicated with computer imaging, and most patients find this a welcome change in their appearance.

I hope this is helpful for you.

Hi Bongars,

Your rhinoplasty surgeon knows best how the technique in his hands will affect your lips.  In general, removing the nasal-septal spine should not change the shape of your lips.  It may release some of the tension of your upper lip and give you a slightly longer upper lip.  Good luck and be well.

Dr. P

I agree that it sounds like you have what is referred to as a "tension nose".  This is caused by overprojection of the septum out from the face, pushing the nose and the lip just under the nostrils out as well.  The anterior nasal spine is the front part of the maxilla that the septum rests on.  In my experience, the anterior nasal spine itself is not usually the problem.  The tip cartilages need to be separated from the septum and pushed back, taking the tension off of the upper lip.  This produces a more acute angle between the nose and the upper lip, which is usually aesthetically favorable.   It is difficult to know if this is really the issue for you without looking at a picture, however. 

If you have a hanging columella this should be addressed by removing both cartilaginous columellar septum and any bony nasal spine that is present, which is pushing your columella downward. Once this is removed, the columella tucks inward and upward giving the elusion of a longer upper lip. It will not affect functionality, shape or proportion of the lips.