Thinking About a Nose Job? Here’s a Simple Guide to the Parts of Your Nose

So, you’re thinking about a nose job. Maybe you’re just curious, or maybe you’ve been staring at your side profile, wondering if something feels off. Wherever you’re at, it helps to know what you’re working with. Learning the basic parts of your nose can make your rhinoplasty (nose job) consult a lot smoother and way more productive.

At Westlake Plastic Surgery, we’ve found that people make the best choices when they actually understand what’s possible. That’s why we put together this quick, beginner-friendly guide to the parts of the nose your surgeon might talk about. Scroll down for a clean, easy breakdown so you can follow along and feel confident going into your appointment.

The Nose, Top to Bottom

Let’s break it down.

1. The Bridge

This is the part that starts between your eyes and goes down a bit. It’s often what people mean when they say, “I’ve got a bump on my nose.” It’s made of bone and helps define your profile. The bridge is a common area that gets reshaped during surgery.

2. The Dorsum

The dorsum is the full length of your nose, from the bridge down to the tip. It includes both the bone at the top and the cartilage below. Basically, it’s the whole top surface of your nose.

3. The Tip

This is the most forward point of your nose. It might be round, narrow, turned up, droopy; there’s a lot of variation here. Refining the tip is one of the more popular goals in rhinoplasty.

4. The Septum

This is the wall that separates your nostrils on the inside. It’s made of cartilage and bone. If it’s off-center (called a deviated septum), it can mess with your breathing. Fixing it is part of a surgery called septoplasty, which is sometimes done along with rhinoplasty.

5. The Nostrils

Also called the nares, these are the two openings at the base of your nose. Some people choose to change their shape or size to create better balance.

6. The Alar Base

This is the area where your nostrils meet your cheeks. If you’ve ever thought your nostrils seem a little wide, this is the area that can be adjusted using a technique called alar base reduction.

7. The Nasolabial Angle

This is the angle where your nose meets your upper lip. It’s one of those small details that can actually make a big difference, especially in your side profile. It can subtly shift how refined or youthful your nose looks.

Why This Stuff Helps

When you know the right words, it’s easier to explain what you’re seeing and what you’re hoping for. Instead of saying, “I just don’t like my nose,” you can say, “I’m not crazy about the bump on the bridge and I’d like the tip to be a little less round.” That kind of clarity helps your surgeon understand you right away and helps you both stay on the same page.

That’s the key to a great rhinoplasty: shared goals and a plan that actually fits your face.

Keeping Things Natural

At Westlake Plastic Surgery, our approach is simple: your nose should fit your face—not stand out as something that was “done.” We aim for subtle changes that bring balance and boost your confidence, without losing what makes you, you.

Want to Chat?

We offer in-person and virtual consults, so whenever you’re ready to talk, we’re here. Bring your questions, your curiosity, and now, your new nose vocab.

Let’s create a nose that feels like you.

Westlake Plastic Surgery

Your face. Your features. Refined with expertise.