An Elegant Nose Tip: Adjusting the Lateral Crural Angle

The nose is one of the most important elements contributing to the beauty and aesthetics of the face. It is one of the most striking features because it is located right in the center of the face.

Even a small change can significantly alter the entire facial expression. Therefore, rhinoplasty, or nose aesthetics, is not only the art of shaping but also the art of restoring facial balance. A small part of this art, often unnoticed but making a big difference with its results, is the “lateral crural resting angle (LCRA)”.

Dr. MFO, known in Antalya for facial feminization and advanced rhinoplasty techniques, emphasizes that this angle plays a critical role in achieving a natural and aesthetic nasal tip appearance.

What is the Lateral Crura Angle and Why is it Important?

The nasal tip is shaped by the coming together of many small cartilage structures. One of these structures, the lateral crura, forms the outer parts of the lower lateral cartilages and extends from the nasal wings to the nasal tip. The lateral crura angle is the angle formed by these cartilages with the upper lateral cartilage. This angle directly determines how upturned, defined, or soft the nasal tip will appear.

A narrow LCRA typically creates a more defined, pointed, and upturned nasal tip. Conversely, a wider angle provides a softer, rounder, and more natural appearance. Therefore, adjusting this angle should be customized according to the individual’s facial proportions and aesthetic preferences. According to Dr. MFO, every face has its own unique proportions, and the ideal angle varies from person to person. Therefore, in rhinoplasty planning, personal harmony should take precedence over a single aesthetic template.

The General Principle of Rhinoplasty: Achieving Aesthetic and Functional Balance

Within the scope of FFS, LCRA is not only a visual element; it also restores functionality by eliminating problems that may arise in nasal function. When the angle is too narrow, the tip of the nose may become pinched, the airway may narrow, and breathing difficulties may occur. When it is too wide, the nasal wings may not find sufficient support and may collapse over time. Therefore, for a successful rhinoplasty, not only aesthetics but also functional balance must be considered.

Dr. MFO explains this as follows:

“The nose is not only an aesthetic feature, but also a respiratory organ. Even a millimeter change at the tip can affect breathing quality. Therefore, lateral crura angle adjustment must always be performed in a way that preserves function as well as aesthetics.”

LCRA Adjustment Techniques in Rhinoplasty

The nose is a structure composed of many elements, and one of the details that affects its overall appearance is the tip of the nose. The attractiveness of the cartilage-based nasal tip directly affects the overall beauty of the face. Surgeons can use different techniques to enhance the attractiveness of the nasal tip or recreate its natural appearance. These techniques are selected based on the patient’s cartilage structure, skin thickness, and the desired nasal tip. Here are the main methods used to adjust LCRA in rhinoplasty:

1. Suture Techniques
   Suture techniques are often preferred for making precise adjustments to the nasal tip.
   For example, intradomal (transdomal) sutures are placed on the medial cartilage and indirectly affect the lateral crura angle by tightening the nasal tip. Another method, the Gruber hemi-transdomal suture, controls the direction of the nasal tip by changing the rotation angle of the lateral crura.
   Additionally, the resting angle suture narrows the angle by reducing the distance between the lateral crus and the upper lateral cartilage. This method is preferred especially when a more defined nasal tip is desired.
2. Cartilage Resection
   In some cases, suture techniques may not be sufficient. In such cases, cartilage resection is performed.
   The upper part of the lateral crura is thinned using a procedure called “lateral crural cephalic trim.” This narrows the angle and gives the nasal tip a more refined appearance.
   However, it is important not to remove too much cartilage, otherwise the nasal tip may lose its support. An experienced surgeon avoids unnecessary aggressive interventions and strikes the ideal balance between aesthetics and function.
3. Cartilage Grafts
   In some patients, the lateral crura may be weak or deficient. In this case, cartilage grafts are used. Small pieces of cartilage taken from the ear or septum are used to support the tip of the nose.
   Dr. MFO applies this method especially in patients who have undergone previous nose surgery or who have weak structural support. Grafts placed under the lateral crura strengthen the tip of the nose while maintaining the desired angle.
4. Lateral Crural Circumcision Technique
   This technique involves folding the lateral crura over itself. In fact, this method is an effective way to reshape the cartilage without using grafts. The folded cartilage both supports the nasal tip and creates a natural angle of rotation. The nasal tip created with this technique has a particularly natural and smooth transition.

Planning Process: Custom Design of the Nose Tip

Every face is different; therefore, the “ideal nose tip” looks different on everyone. How lifted and prominent the nose tip will be is determined based on the proportions of the forehead, lips, and chin. This holistic approach ensures the most aesthetic results.

During preoperative planning, the surgeon evaluates the three-dimensional structure of the nose. Photographic analyses, symmetry measurements, and modeling based on facial contours are used to create a personalized plan.

Naturalness in Aesthetics: The New Goal of Modern Rhinoplasty

Although beauty standards change over time, naturalness is always timeless. In the past, very upturned, artificial-looking nose tips were popular. However, today, naturalness and harmony with the face are at the forefront. The correct adjustment of the LCRA is at the center of the modern rhinoplasty approach for this very reason. Dr. MFO now embrace the concept of not just a “small nose,” but a “natural, functional, and harmonious nose.”

Conclusion

Creating an attractive nasal tip is an art that can change the overall expression of the face. In this art, the correct adjustment of the lateral crural angle plays a decisive role in both aesthetics and function. The methods used, from suture techniques to cartilage grafts, from resection to lateral crural cirrhosis, should be customized according to the patient’s needs.

Dr. MFO, one of the experienced names in the field of rhinoplasty, achieves natural, breathable, and harmonious results with the face by maintaining this balance in each patient. Ultimately, the goal is not only a beautiful nose but also a natural expression and healthy breathing.
A well-planned lateral crural angle is the silent but powerful hero of this goal.

We hope that this article has provided you with useful information and solutions to your problems, and has inspired you to pursue your dreams and goals. If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you and to help you in any way we can. Thank you for reading and have a wonderful day!Follow our blog for more. You can also reach us on our contact page for any questions you may have. Ffs center is an LGBT community friendly organization.