Is it possible to increase the distance between the base of the nose and the lips? (Photo)

Question

The proportions of my face, particularly the distances of my lips to the base of my nose as well as the distance between my lips and the bottom of my chin have always bothered me. As well as the shape of my nose. Any suggestions would be greatly helpful.

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

The short answer is-yes. You have the ability to have a much better nose that would hopefully suit you and your needs. In the right hands- you should be able to expect all aspects that you mention to be addressed and improved. But it is essential to choose the right Surgeon for your surgery

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

This distance is shorter in young adults and tends to increase as we age.  It is a sign of youth as evidenced by procedures to lift the lip becoming more common.  There are no well described procedures to increase this distance surgically.

Anthony Bared, MD, FACS · Answer

It is difficult to assess your concerns with the photo provided.  In some specific cases the proportions of the upper lip and the bottom of the nose can be altered through rhinoplasty.  These cases are specific to when the nose is long and the middle part of the nose is hanging or the septum is pushing down on the upper lip.  Photos from different angles would be needed to assess your specific case.

Mark Hamilton, MD · Answer

Thank you for sending images.Rhinoplasty can not only be used to change the shape of the nose, but also to change the distance between the nose and the upper lip. In addition, it can be combined with surgery to the chin area to reshape the lower third of the face.While it is impossible to make an exact diagnosis based on a single image, it does appear you have some crowding in the upper lip area. There are a variety of techniques to both tilt the nose up as well as elevate the base, both of which create a more open upper lip. There are a variety of ways to reshape the chin from augmentation to lengthening to reduction depending on your goal. I would recommend consulting with a board certified facial plastic surgeon who regularly performs rhinoplasty and chin  surgery to explore your options.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

A columella-plasty can accomplish reduction of the hanging columella, which will give the illusion that there is a longer upper lip, since the nose is become shorter in the vertical dimension. For many examples, please see  the link and the video below

Is it possible to increase the distance between the base of the nose and the lips? (Photo)

Answers (9)