Jaw surgery, specifically procedures involving maxillary advancement and superior repositioning, can alter the appearance of your nose.
When the upper jaw (maxilla) is moved forward and upward during surgery, it influences the surrounding facial structures, including the nose. Based on clinical observations, this type of procedure tends to cause several distinct changes:
Specific Nasal Changes from Maxillary Advancement
According to the provided reference (6, 8), maxillary advancement and superior repositioning can lead to the following effects on the nose:
- Elevation of the nasal tip: The tip of the nose may appear lifted.
- Advancement of the nasal tip: The tip may also project forward more prominently.
- Enlargement of the nasal base: The width of the nose at its base, where it meets the upper lip, may increase.
Further potential changes specifically noted after maxillary advancements (6) can include:
- Rotation of the tip: The orientation of the nasal tip might change.
- Exaggeration of the supratip break: The slight indentation just above the nasal tip may become more pronounced.
- Softening of the dorsal hump: Any bump on the bridge of the nose might appear less prominent.
These changes occur because the maxilla provides structural support to the nose, and altering its position directly impacts the overlying soft tissues and cartilage of the nasal structure.
It's important to understand that the extent and specific nature of these changes can vary depending on the individual's unique anatomy, the precise surgical movements performed, and the healing process. Patients considering jaw surgery should discuss these potential aesthetic changes with their surgeon.
