Can rhinoplasty improve my smile ?

Question

I have a long nose but a bulbous nose tip and when I smile my nose widens making my face look pretty ugly. As long as I don't smile I look good but smiling makes my upper lip to stretch and that bulbous nose contributes to making my face look bad. I am 17 right now and thinking of getting a nose job done. So is it a right decision at this age and can getting nose job done improve my smile ...???

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

These questions are always hard to answer without photos or an exam.  Rhinoplasty may be appropriate.  In general, the static features of the face are treated with a rhinoplasty.  However, this obviously impacts the dynamic phase as well.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The rhinoplasty procedure will not improve your smile. The rhinoplasty procedure will narrow the nose at rest, not animation. Even though the entire nose is more narrow after the procedure, it will still  widen when smiling. It's also important to release the depressor septi ligament( if present) which prevents the tip from drooping when smiling. A bulbous tip is narrowed with suture techniques to the lower lateral cartilages. A closed rhinoplasty approach can accomplish making all the required changes to the nose with all the incisions placed on the inside of it. For many examples, please see the link below to our rhinoplasty photo gallery

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Sounds like a Rhinoplasty will improve your smile. Discuss your concerns with your parents prior to scheduling a consultation with a Plastic Surgeon.  If they are supportive, you and your parents should consult with a Plastic Surgeon for an exam to discuss your options.

Can rhinoplasty improve my smile ?

Answers (3)