How many degrees do the angle between the nose and the upper lip fall after a rhinoplasty? (Photo)

Question

I have 3 weeks and 2 days after rhinoplasty. My nose and nostrils are upturned pig-like and I'm worried about the angle between my lips and nose that is too open and my upper lips are stiff and raised. I think that my nose will not change too much after swelling. Do you think the angle between my nose and uuper lips can change after swelling? I feel terrible :( I just wanted a natural look and unoperated nose

Philip K. Robb Jr., MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question and your vulnerability. The nose can change a lot after rhinoplasty. I agree with your that you're nose is over rotated. I wouldn't make any decisions until around a year after surgery. If it's still too rotated for your liking, I'd consult with a facial plastic surgeon who specializes in revision rhinoplasty- this can be fixed. Hope this helps and God Bless!Dr Robb

S. Larry Schlesinger, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for this excellent question, and I am sorry you are dissatisfied with the appearance of your brand new rhinoplasty.The good news is, on the face, everything goes south over time.  Your nose was very recently operated on, and your tissue is going through the inflammatory stage where things tighten and are swollen for several months.  With time, the scar tissue in your nose will relax and there will be a decrease in the nasal labial angle.  Depending on how your surgeon did your rhinoplasty, there will be more or less relaxation.Noses are the central feature on anyone's face, and early post operatively, if someone absolutely loves their result, I cringe because things will change.  Early fears or dissatisfaction after a rhinoplasty is common because things will change, most often for the better.  Give time, time, and stay in touch with your personal plastic surgeon.

Christian L. Stallworth, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I would agree that currently your tip appears over-rotated.  However, it is far to early to say how this will settle out.  I would definitely avoid any decisions until you were at least 3-6 months out.  How much you can expect to see improve depends some on the approach used (open vs. endonasal), whether grafting was used for your tip support and what kind, the degree of swelling etc.  Also the perception of attractive tip rotation is also dependent on your physical height.  To some degree, all open rhinoplasties can have some over rotation early on, only to fall with time.Stay patient and optimistic and discuss these concerns with your surgeon.  If you are not satisfied, then make sure to visit with a board certified facial plastic surgeon well versed in rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty.  Best wishes.

Pejman Aflaki, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for question. It's not easy to predict with certainty the extent and direction of postoperative changes after rhinoplasty. It's too early in your recovery process and it can take up to 1 year for the final results. Please discuss your concerns with your surgeon. 
Best,
Pejman Aflaki, M.D.
Johns Hopkins-trained plastic surgeon

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. The most ideal angle between the nose and the upper lip - known as the nasolabial angle - should be between 95 and 110 degrees. I suggest that you move forward and consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon.
Best wishes,

How many degrees do the angle between the nose and the upper lip fall after a rhinoplasty? (Photo)

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How many degrees do the angle between the nose and the upper lip fall after a rhinoplasty? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Rhinoplasty results

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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