The Aging Nose: Characteristics and Correction

Rhinitis in the geriatric population

“…A loss of nasal tip support develops because of weakening of fibrous connective tissue at the upper and lower lateral cartilages[ 4 ]. Collagen and elastin loss, maxillary alveolar hypoplasia, and decreased facial musculature lead to a drooped tip[ 41 ]. Furthermore, weakening and fragmentation of septal cartilage and retraction of the nasal columella leads to changes in the nasal cavity[ 42 ].…”

The aging nose

“…The alar insufficiency is often concomitant with a droop of the nasal tip, as described anatomically by Krmpotic-Nemanic et al (1971). Tardy (1980) and Patterson (1980), in their papers, mention alterations of skin elasticity, subcutaneous tissue and cartilage occurring with age and the surgery recommended for these conditions. Vetter et al (1984) have shown that the human nasal septum continues to grow at its anterior free end throughout life, and this obviously contributes to alterations in the nasal airway through life.…”

“…The increasing age of the population demands a better knowledge of aging processes, including those concerning the nose. Patterson (1980) and Tardy (1980) described the aging nose, but we have found no papers dealing with long-term results of septal surgery in older patients which is the purpose of this paper.…”

The place of rhinoplasty in the ageing face

“…In the face and nose, the effects become apparent relatively early. It has been suggested that changes start in the late teens but do not become obvious until the mid-twenties, when subtle alterations in the structure of the skin and underlying tissues start to be influenced by extrinsic factors such as sun damage, smoking and alcohol 3 . However, it tends not to be until mid-life that our appearance has altered to an extent that prompts some to seek surgical assistance.…”

“…At the same time, the overall effect of other afflictions of facial ageing must be considered, such as baggy eyes, jowls, neck wattle and elongated pinnae 3 , 6 . Patients will be variably affected by these, so any change in nasal shape must be in context 3 . Cosmetic change is often a by-product of a functional rhinoplasty, so the surgeon must be mindful that secondary changes in nasal shape do not upset the aesthetic equilibrium.…”