What’s Important to Consider for a Rhinoplasty?

Nose surgery from Nashville’s Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute is an effective way for patients to alter the shape and size of the most prominent feature on their face. Because it is such a visual draw, many people have some aspect of their nose that they wish they could change, whether it’s the size, a bump on the bridge, or some other structural issue.

When it comes to facial beauty, a harmonious, symmetrical appearance is usually considered ideal. Nose jobs—known technically as rhinoplasty—are used to improve overall facial balance and emphasize a patient’s most attractive qualities while at the same time preserving natural features so that they still look like themselves.

Here are some factors that patients should consider when planning a rhinoplasty.

It’s important to do research on your own to find an experienced plastic surgeon whose style matches what you want. It’s also key to know (or at least have a fairly good idea) of what you expect from your surgery before you decide to go through with the procedure. Communicate with your surgeon and ensure the whole team fully understands the type of outcome you want to achieve.

Though everyone has unique preferences, male and female patients tend to have different goals for the type of nose shape they hope to create. Men often aim for a “stronger” profile featuring a nose with a straighter, higher, and wider bridge, while women typically prefer a smaller, daintier nose with a more upturned tip and softer curves. These variables affect the nasolabial angle—the visual relationship between the nose and upper lip—which is also influenced by nasal projection and nasal tip rotation.

This angle consists of two lines: One stretches from the tip of the nose to the space above the upper lip, and the other extends from the upper lip to the nasal base. Surgeons often try to adjust the nose to a 90 to 95 degree nasolabial angle for male patients, while a 100 to 105 degree angle is more typical for women. Overall, anywhere from 90 to 120 degrees for most patients is considered to be the best range, depending on their anatomy.

At Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute, we not only discuss these aspects in detail, but we also use 3D imaging to show you exactly what those different angles and dimensions will look like on your face. This is another great communication tool and data set for both the surgeon and the patient to better understand the goals of the procedure and make sure everyone is on the same page.

The columella-labial angle (CLA), length of the nose itself, and how well the nose blends with the overall face are other considerations. Patients do not need to know or understand the various proportions or relationships required to make a nose that harmonizes with the rest of their features—but they should choose a surgeon who does.

For more information on what you can expect during nose surgery in Nashville, get in touch with our team at Nashville Plastic Surgery Institute by calling 615-932-7700, or request a consultation by submitting a contact form online.