Many people observe that their nose seems to change shape as they get older, leading to a common question about whether noses continue to grow throughout adulthood. Understanding the science behind these changes can clarify what truly happens to the nose with age.
The Biological Reality
The cartilaginous and bony structures of the nose do not continue to grow indefinitely once adulthood is reached. Skeletal growth, including that of the nose’s underlying bone and cartilage, largely ceases by early adulthood, typically in the late teens to early twenties. Any perceived changes in nasal size later in life are not due to continued growth in the sense of cellular proliferation and an increase in the size of these structures.
Changes That Mimic Growth
While the nose does not truly grow, several factors contribute to its altered appearance, often making it seem larger or longer with age. The constant pull of gravity on soft tissues over decades can cause the nasal tip to droop, known as nasal ptosis, which makes the nose appear elongated. This downward movement can also accentuate an existing hump on the nasal bridge.
The breakdown of collagen and elastin, proteins providing elasticity and firmness, also plays a significant role. As these proteins diminish, the skin loses its ability to snap back, leading to sagging, particularly noticeable in the nose.
The cartilage itself can undergo subtle changes, becoming weaker and losing its firm support. This, combined with looser skin, contributes to the nose appearing less defined and more prominent. The skin covering the nose can also become thinner or heavier due to increased sebaceous gland activity, contributing to a less defined appearance and sagging.
Broader Facial Aging
The perceived changes in the nose are part of a broader process of overall facial aging, as the nose does not age in isolation. Other facial features change with age, which can collectively contribute to the appearance of a larger or more prominent nose.
For instance, ears are often observed to increase in size throughout life, not from actual growth of new tissue, but due to changes in cartilage and the effects of gravity.
Underlying facial bones can also change shape or resorb over time, altering the foundation upon which facial features rest. This bone loss, particularly in areas like the midface and around the nose, can reduce support for overlying soft tissues, contributing to changes in facial contours.
Changes in facial fat pads, including both loss and redistribution, impact overall facial contours. The loss of fat in certain areas can create a leaner or more hollowed appearance, which can make the nose stand out more.