I had a rhinoplasty as I had an upturned nose. My doctor moved my tip downward, narrowed my tip and changed the naso-labial angle. At first my upper lip was covering my upper teeth but it got better, and now you can see my teeth but I still have a stiff lip and I cannot smile properly. He told me I will have to wait weeks and I would like a second opinion as how many weeks. thank you
July 5, 2011
Answer: Keeping a Stiff Upper Lip After Rhinoplasty
Hi Beatriz,
Keep an upper lip about this. Your surgeon knows best. It will likely take a few more weeks for your upper lip muscles to reattach and for your smile to return. Good luck and be well, hope that you enjoy your new nose.
Dr. P
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
July 5, 2011
Answer: Keeping a Stiff Upper Lip After Rhinoplasty
Hi Beatriz,
Keep an upper lip about this. Your surgeon knows best. It will likely take a few more weeks for your upper lip muscles to reattach and for your smile to return. Good luck and be well, hope that you enjoy your new nose.
Dr. P
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
August 7, 2019
Answer: De-Rotation CAN Change the Upper Lip
You should expect some (usually very minor) changes in the upper lip as de-rotation of the nose can relieve tension in that area. As the nasolabial angle changes to a less obtuse position, the lip can drop very slightly. In most patients, this is not noticeable, however, in some it can be seen. This is usually accentuated by the swelling in this area immediately after surgery.
As with all rhinoplasty, healing time is expected in order to allow for the swelling to resolve. As the swelling and firmness fade, you may still notice some difference, but this should not stop you from accepting and enjoying your new nose if your surgeon has achieved your goals.
Of course, you should also address this with your surgeon, as he/she will be able to further explain precisely what was done.
Helpful 3 people found this helpful
August 7, 2019
Answer: De-Rotation CAN Change the Upper Lip
You should expect some (usually very minor) changes in the upper lip as de-rotation of the nose can relieve tension in that area. As the nasolabial angle changes to a less obtuse position, the lip can drop very slightly. In most patients, this is not noticeable, however, in some it can be seen. This is usually accentuated by the swelling in this area immediately after surgery.
As with all rhinoplasty, healing time is expected in order to allow for the swelling to resolve. As the swelling and firmness fade, you may still notice some difference, but this should not stop you from accepting and enjoying your new nose if your surgeon has achieved your goals.
Of course, you should also address this with your surgeon, as he/she will be able to further explain precisely what was done.
Helpful 3 people found this helpful