What can be changed with Septorhinoplasty (Nasal dorsal extension), and its limitations

Septorhinoplasty (Nasal dorsal extension) is a surgery that extends a short nose or an upturned nasal tip forward or downward to refine it[1][2]. Unlike simply tightening the nasal tip with sutures, which tends to revert, this procedure is characterized by creating a foundation with cartilage to provide support[1]. However, there are limits to how much the nose can be extended, determined by the amount of available cartilage and the condition of the skin.

What can Septorhinoplasty (Nasal dorsal extension) achieve?

Adjustments can be made to project the nasal tip forward, angle it downward, and add length to the nose[1]. In particular, it is widely used in Asian noses, which often have thick skin and weak cartilage, as a stable method to enhance the height and length of the nasal tip[2]. It is essentially rebuilding the foundation of the nasal tip itself.

Who is it suitable for?

It is suitable for those with a short nose, an upturned nasal tip with visible nostrils, or weak nasal tip support[1]. It is also used when nasal tip support has been lost due to previous surgery, or for correcting congenital deformities[3]A professional evaluation during consultation is needed to determine if your nose falls into this type.

Which cartilage should be used?

The cartilage used for the foundation is selected from one of three sources: the nasal septum (the divider inside the nose), the ear, or the rib. When septal cartilage is insufficient, rib cartilage or a combination of multiple sources is used.[2]The choice affects the burden on your body, the strength of the result, and how resistant it is to relapse.

Are there limitations and relapse risks?

The amount of lengthening is limited by the available cartilage and the skin's elasticity. If the skin is thick and firm, the change may be more modest than expected.[2]Creating a solid foundation can reduce relapse, but if the support design is inadequate, the shape may shift back toward its original form.[1].

Points to confirm during consultation

What needs to be confirmed is how much your nose can be lengthened, which cartilage will be used, and how the foundation will be designed to prevent relapse.[1][2]Skin thickness and cartilage volume are difficult to assess from the outside on your own. Having your physician examine the inside and tip of your nose, then aligning realistic goals with the reason for using specific cartilage, is the starting point.