Nasal Tip Rotation and Rhinoplasty Surgery

One of the most challenging – and satisfying – parts of a full rhinoplasty is adjusting the rotation of the nasal tip.  Tip rotation is defined by the position of the nasal tip relative to the nasal dorsum (bridge) and the lip.  The angle between the lip and the nose (the nasolabial angle) is smaller in an under rotated nose than it is in an appropriately or over rotated nose.  Under rotation of the nasal tip makes a nose look long and droopy and it ages ones appearance as this type of nose is associated with an older individual.  On the contrary, over rotation of the nasal tip makes a nose looks short and chopped and often results in the nostrils being overly visible from the front.

During your rhinoplasty consultation, tip adjustments are discussed and computer imaging is used to give an impression of the post operative appearance.  The more substantial the planned changes are to the nasal tip, the more likely I am to recommend an open or external rhinoplasty.  In my opinion, this approach allows better access to the tip cartilages and therefore allows a superior surgical outcome.

After surgery to the nasal tip, most patients will return to non strenous activites within 1 week and to normal activities in 2 weeks.  80% of healing will be complete after approximately 8 weeks but it may take as long as 12 months for the final appeaance to be achieved.