What Is Upturned Nose Rhinoplasty?
Dec 19, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
What is Upturned Nose Rhinoplasty?
1. The upturned nose is a relatively distinctive nasal deformity commonly seen among East Asians, referred to in Western medicine as the “short nose.” When viewed frontally, the entire nasal vestibule (nostril opening) is visibly exposed—indicating insufficient nasal length. On lateral view, the angle between the nasal tip–alar region and the upper lip–alar region is excessively large. Structurally, this deformity results from underdevelopment of both the nasal bones and nasal cartilages.
Upturned nose (also known as “celestial nose”) is a source of concern for many individuals and falls under the category of nasal deformities. To achieve definitive correction of an upturned nose, surgical intervention is the only effective option. The specific surgical approach depends on the severity of the nasal deformity, resulting in outcomes that vary from person to person. Therefore, thorough preoperative and postoperative preparation is essential. So, what exactly does upturned nose rhinoplasty entail? Let’s explore this further.
What Is Upturned Nose Rhinoplasty?
1. The upturned nose is a relatively distinctive nasal deformity commonly seen among East Asians; Western practitioners refer to it as a “short nose.” When viewed frontally, the entire nasal vestibule (nostrils) is visibly exposed—indicating insufficient nasal length. On lateral view, the angle formed between the nasal tip, alar rim, and the upper lip is excessively obtuse. Structurally, this deformity results from underdevelopment of both the nasal bones and nasal cartilages.
2. Extensive subcutaneous dissection and release of the nasal skin are required. In more severe cases of upturned nose, even the intranasal mucosa may need to be widely dissected. Alternatively, the upper and lower lateral nasal cartilages can be separated from surrounding tissues. Nasal dorsum lengthening and structural support may be achieved using septal or auricular cartilage grafts. These supporting grafts fall into two main categories: Extension Grafts and Paired Batten Grafts. Subsequently, the lower lateral cartilages are elongated downward and secured to the supporting graft. Finally, auricular cartilage is harvested and grafted at the nasal tip to refine and reconstruct its shape.
3. The surgical procedure involves varying degrees of dissection and release of the nasal skin and cartilages—including both upper and lower lateral cartilages—depending on the severity of the upturned nose. In severe cases, mucosal dissection is also performed. Septal or auricular cartilage is harvested to reconstruct and lengthen the nasal dorsum. The lower lateral cartilages are then elongated and fixed to the dorsal support structure. Special attention is paid to nasal tip reconstruction via cartilage grafting. Collectively, these techniques effectively address prominent nostril exposure and short nasal dorsum. However, correction of an upturned nose cannot guarantee 100% success. Even with successful surgery, physiological nasal retraction may still occur postoperatively. Patients must understand these potential limitations and prepare psychologically before undergoing surgery.
The above outlines key aspects of upturned nose rhinoplasty. Several surgical techniques are available, each yielding distinct aesthetic outcomes and suited to different types and severities of nasal deformity. When considering upturned nose correction, patients should seek treatment exclusively at reputable, licensed medical institutions—ensuring greater safety and more predictable, satisfactory results.
