The most attractive side profile for most people is either a straight profile or a profile that has a bit of a scoop. Females tend to prefer a slight scoop over males who go for a straight profile. What it really comes down to though, is personal preference.Close Up of Dr. Sturm Sitting in the Lobby

What is the ideal, perfect nose shape? 

The ideal, perfect nose shape as defined in plastic surgery books is a 120-degree angle from the forehead to the nose, with the angle from the lip to the nose being 95 to about 105 degrees in women and around 90 degrees in men. There is also an ideal shape between the dorsum, the projection of the tip, and the cheek, which is an isosceles triangle. People who have thicker skin, require different techniques during surgery than those with thinner skin. However, “ideal” means different things to different people, so what’s perfect in plastic surgery books may not be perfect for you.

What is the most attractive nostril shape? 

The most attractive nostril shape is the one that works best with your face shape. There are round, almond, vertical, or horizontal nostrils, and other variations to consider. Most people prefer more of an almond shape with them being more vertical than horizontal. This gives the nose a thinner, more refined look. 

From the side, if you draw a line through the middle of the nostril, you should have about 2 millimeters between the edge of the Ala and the bottom of the Columella. About 2 mm is perfect for that but I’m not big on numbers defining who you are. From the front, we typically go for what we call a “gull in flight” which is where the top of the nostril down to the bottom of the tip has a very gentle curve that looks like a gull in flight.

What you don’t necessarily want is something where the nostrils are too pulled up, making it appear like your nostrils are angry. You definitely don’t want to nostrils where people can look directly into the nose when viewing you from the front, which gives the nose a very overdone appearance. In general, 2 millimeters from the side and the gull-wing from the front are going to give you a great nostril shape. 

Have questions? I’d love to help.
Call me at (281) 336-9300

Read More

How Do I Choose My Nose for a Nose Job?

About Dr. Angela Sturm

Dr. Angela Sturm is a double-board certified facial plastic surgeon with certifications with the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery. Dr. Sturm’s meticulous nature makes for exceptional results and satisfied patients. Dr. Sturm was named Texas Monthly’s Super Doctors Rising Star in 2016-2017, Texas Monthly’s Super Doctor in 2018-2019, H Texas Magazine’s Top Doc in 2013-2018, Top Doc by Houstonia magazine in 2016-2018, Houston Business Journal’s People on the Move and 40 under 40, Blazing Star Award by Texas Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Top Women in Business, one of the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston, Best Female Cosmetic Surgeon in Out Smart, and given the Patients’ Choice Award, On Time Doctor Award and Compassionate Doctor Award by Vitals.com.


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