Nose shape and craniofacial development patterns

## Maxillary growth direction and nasal morphology * **Total maxillary morphology (with its horizontal and verical dimensions) is directly responsible for the nose shape.** * More horizontal lower maxillary projection mechanically separates the attachment of the nose base cartilage forward and away from the nasion (spot where the nasal bone starts) and nasal bridge from the lower, soft structures of the nose which creates the perceived flatness of the nasal bridge. * This happens because in case of increased horizontal maxillary projection the upper nasal structures (nasion and nose bridge) are now relatively posterior (back) compared to the nose base (lower nasal structures). * Moving the maxilla forward pulls the attached nose base and nostrils outward (alar flare). The skin is stretched taut across the broader bone, which softens sharp angles and potentially broadens the nose tip. * **Secondary foundation: maxillary morphology.** The anterior nasal spine (ANS) is a bony projection of the maxilla that serves purely as the anchor point for the cartilaginous nasal base. The maxilla sets the baseline angle (foundation tilt); severe skeletal issues such as vertical maxillary excess alter this foundation tilt and secondarily affect how the nasal tip sits.