Botox is often associated with smoothing wrinkles and fine lines, but did you know it can also be used to enhance the appearance of your nose? Lately, many of my patients have been asking about non-surgical ways to achieve a "Tinkerbell nose," an upturned nasal tip, or a slimmer nose after seeing viral trends on TikTok. In this blog, we'll explore what Botox can and can't do when it comes to nasal aesthetics. Want to hear my full breakdown of how Botox works for nasal aesthetics? Watch my YouTube video here:
Understanding How Botox Works for the Nose
Botox, or any neuromodulator (such as Dysport, Xeomin, or Jeuveau), works by relaxing muscles to create subtle changes in facial appearance. However, it’s essential to manage expectations when considering Botox for nasal slimming or reshaping.
The nose is primarily made up of bone and cartilage, which Botox cannot change. Instead, Botox affects the muscles around the nose to create subtle enhancements. Here’s what Botox can help with:
1. Bunny Lines & Nasal Bridge Slimming
The nasalis muscle on the nasal bridge is responsible for the fine lines that appear when scrunching your nose (often called bunny lines). Injecting Botox into this area can smooth these lines and, in some cases, slightly slim the nasal bridge— but only if the width is due to muscle activity, not cartilage or bone structure.
2. Plunging Nasal Tip & Tinkerbell Nose Lift
If your nasal tip drops when you smile, you may have an overactive depressor septi nasi muscle. A small amount of Botox (2-5 units) in this area can help relax the muscle, preventing the tip from plunging downward and giving a subtle upturn—sometimes referred to as a Tinkerbell nose lift.
Additionally, as we age, the nasal tip naturally droops due to structural changes in the bone. Botox can help counteract this by lifting the nasal tip slightly, creating a more youthful and refined look.
3. Nostril Flaring & Nasal Width Reduction
For individuals who experience excessive nostril flaring when speaking or expressing emotion, Botox can help relax the muscles responsible for this movement. A conservative amount (1-2 units per side) can minimize flaring, which may give the illusion of a slightly narrower nose. However, it will not change the actual structure of the nostrils or nasal width.
What Botox CANNOT Do for the Nose
While Botox offers some enhancements, it has its limitations:
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It cannot permanently slim the nose beyond reducing muscle contractions.
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It does not alter cartilage or bone structure, meaning if your nose appears wide due to bone structure, Botox will not change it.
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It is not a substitute for dermal filler or rhinoplasty for more significant nasal reshaping.
Why I Don’t Use Filler for the Nose
As an expert injector, I do not perform non-surgical rhinoplasty with filler due to the high risk of complications. The nose has a complex vascular structure, and using filler without ultrasound guidance can increase the risk of vascular occlusion, which can lead to severe complications. If you are considering filler in your nose, always seek an experienced provider who uses ultrasound technology.
Managing Expectations: Is Botox Right for You?
If you are looking for a subtle refinement to smooth bunny lines, reduce nostril flaring, or lift a drooping nasal tip, Botox may be a great option for you. However, if you are expecting a dramatic change in nasal shape or width, you may need to explore surgical options.
Before getting Botox for nasal aesthetics, it's important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or expert injector who understands the anatomy of the nose.
If you found this blog helpful, share it with a friend who might be considering non-surgical nose enhancements. Have questions? Drop a comment below! Or call my office
As always, I love you guys!
