Rhinoplasty and facial expression.

Based on the philosophical concept that facial beauty is not merely harmony of static anatomical structures but also the dynamic expression of the face (especially when one smiles), I propose that plastic surgeons approach the problem of aesthetic improvement of the human face not only in response but also when the face moves. I call this "surgery of the facial expression." I describe here the use of a new surgical procedure to correct a certain condition with which plastic surgeons are frequently confronted when patients consult and request rhinoplasty. Many patients have added defects that are exposed only when they begin to make facial movements and gestures; moreover, these added defects become even more manifest when they smile. I call this phenomenon "rhino-gingivolabial syndrome of the smile," and describe the technique I have used not only to improve the form of the nose but also to enhance the patient's smile.