FORMA FEATURE / NOSENasal tip projection: measurements, ratios, and research
Projection is how far the nasal tip extends forward. It should be distinguished from nasal length, tip rotation, and alar-base width.
How nasal tip projection is measured
Goode method: draw a vertical baseline through the alar-facial groove and measure perpendicular tip projection (P). Divide P by the straight nasion-to-tip nasal length (L). Use the same published construction every time: P ÷ L.
Ratios, ranges & competing claims
0.55–0.60 — The Goode reference range
A commonly used clinical reference places tip projection at 55–60% of nasal length. The ratio is based on profile landmarks, not alar width or intercanthal distance.
Clinical guide: A rhinoplasty planning convention, not a universal attractiveness result. Chin position, upper-lip length, and facial type affect how projection looks. Rhinoplasty Tip-Shaping Surgery
≈ 0.67 — A different method gives a different number
A 2024 study discusses Byrd–Hobar’s two-thirds reference alongside Goode’s 0.55–0.60. Its AI-assisted analysis found support for a roughly 0.67 tip-length/nasal-length relationship in the studied groups.
Study: Methods and landmarks must be matched. AI-derived “ideal” images do not substitute for representative human preference testing or a surgical outcome trial. Role of Artificial Intelligence in Determining Ideal Nasal Tip Projection in Diverse Populations
Practical takeaway
Use Goode’s ratio for the first profile comparison.
Measure projection against nasal length with the published Goode construction. Then read the tip’s prominence relative to the upper lip and chin.
What changes the answer
A longer nose needs more absolute projection to keep the same ratio. A recessed chin can make that nose appear more dominant. Alar width helps assess the front view but does not calculate the required tip projection.
Connected facial features
Explore the interactive atlas and compare this feature with both fixed reference views.