Facial analysis in rhinoplasty: why we look at the whole face

When we think about rhinoplasty, we think about the nose. But the nose sits at the centre of the face, and the way we see it depends on the forehead, the eyes, the lips and the chin. That is why, at Clínica do Nariz e Face, the consultation includes a facial analysis.

Prof. Dr. Miguel Gonçalves Ferreira explains that, more than a simulation, he prefers to call it “a study of the face”. In this article we explain what it is, how it is done and why it helps achieve a natural result.

The facial analysis is the assessment of the face as a whole, carried out at the consultation. Based on standardised photographs and the Crisalix software, the surgeon simulates what he believes to be the best harmony for that face, and shows it to the patient on a 3D model.

In the words of Prof. Dr. Miguel Gonçalves Ferreira, at the consultation “we can discuss the whole context, all the different parts of the face that should or should not be corrected, that should or should not be improved”.

• The nose is measured in relation to the face. A nose that looks big may be in balance on one face and not on another. What matters is proportion.
• The chin changes the perception of the nose. A chin with little projection makes the nose look bigger in profile. In some cases, chin surgery performed at the same time balances the profile.
• The lips and the tip of the nose are linked. The distance between the nose and the upper lip, and the angle between the two, are part of the harmony of the lower third of the face.
• The goal is a natural result. A nose that is beautiful on its own but does not suit the face looks operated. Harmony is what makes it so that nobody can tell what changed.

1. Conversation: what bothers you, what you would like to change and what you do not want to change.
2. Photographs: the team takes standardised photographs of the face, from the front, in profile, at three quarters and from the base of the nose.
3. 3D simulation: the photographs are uploaded to the Crisalix platform, which creates a three-dimensional model of your face. Read more in Crisalix 3D simulation in rhinoplasty.
4. Discussion of the result: the surgeon shows the proposal and adjusts it with you, in real time.
5. Access to the simulations: after the consultation you can review them at home and show them to whoever you wish before deciding.

“A finer tip” or “a smaller nose” mean different things to different people. The facial analysis solves that: patient and surgeon start looking at the same image.

Prof. Dr. Miguel Gonçalves Ferreira describes the simulation as “an extremely useful communication tool”, which allows you to “discuss, I would say negotiate with the patient all the features they want to change”. You can ask for a less raised tip, keep a small curve on the bridge or understand why a change you imagined would not look good on your face.

The simulation shows a goal, not a guarantee: the final result depends on factors such as the skin, the structure of the nose and healing. That is precisely why it is so useful, because it helps align expectations before any decision.

Talking about your own face is not easy. That is why the clinic’s facilities are understated and calm, designed so that the patient feels, as Prof. Dr. Miguel Gonçalves Ferreira puts it, “absolutely at ease, relaxed”. The consultation usually lasts 45 minutes to an hour, and also includes the breathing examination. See what the first rhinoplasty consultation is like.

Does the facial analysis cost extra?

No. The facial analysis and the Crisalix 3D simulation are part of the consultation.

Does the facial analysis oblige me to have other surgeries?

No. The analysis is there to understand the face as a whole. If it makes sense to correct another area, such as the chin, the surgeon explains why, and the decision is always yours.

Can I start the analysis from home?

You can send the photographs for the facial simulation or start with a video consultation. The full analysis is done at the in-person consultation.

Will the result be identical to the simulation?

The simulation is the goal of the surgery, not a guarantee: each person’s skin, nasal structure and healing also count. See real results in rhinoplasty before and after.

At Clínica do Nariz e Face, rhinoplasty is performed by Prof. Dr. Miguel Gonçalves Ferreira, a specialist in Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery, with more than 9,000 rhinoplasties performed. The facial analysis is part of every consultation, at our rhinoplasty in Porto and rhinoplasty in Braga.

Book your consultation or contact us on WhatsApp.

This article is for information purposes only and does not replace a medical consultation.