Types of Noses ? What do they say about you?

Nose types have been carved over centuries, adapting to different climates, humidity, temperature and beauty standards. Like our hands or skin color, the nose is one of the parts of the body that sheds the most light on the mysteries of our past, and the aspects of our history that have been blurred by the passage of time. Noses proof that our ancestors survive in our physical traits, telling the story of who we are and where we come from.

Basic Notions about Facial Harmony

Diagram of a female face divided according to proportions and geometry

Facial Harmony Fundamentals

There is a science behind facial harmony that painters and sculptors have studied for thousands of years. There is a fundamental lesson to be extracted from it:

Aesthetically pleasing noses are largely dependent on the overall composition of the facial structure

In other words, there is no one-shape-fits-all.

This being said, patterns for aesthetic proportion have been singled out by some of the best artists in history. Quickly summarized, they are the following (any attempt at reforming the nose should take this into consideration):

  • The ideal ratio between the forehead-eyebrows, eyebrows-nose and nose-chin is 1:1:1
  • The ideal nose height is approximately 65% of the nose length
  • The nasal tip should be subtly above the bridge and in accordance with the chin size
  • The nasal bridge and the tip should form a 30-45º angle

Types of Noses around the World

Man looking at a wall with noses hanging from it

Noses are categorized in groups

Some people want to read about nose shapes to acquire a more beautifully looking appearance, whereas others want to discover more about their origins. But nose shapes can tell you more than just your family history!

Recent studies have demonstrated that different nose types can also indicate psychological types and the first impression we cause on people!

Now, there are several nasal shapes we can all identify with. This does not mean that the following types of noses are exclusive to one or another ethnic group, as an African type of nose can be noticeable in a caucasian person and vice versa.

Types of Caucasian-European Noses

Below, we present our selection of the most common noses among Indo-European ethnicities, from Iran to the western riffs of Ireland.

Roman Nose

Painting of a finely draped roman with a roman type of nose

The Roman nose type is of fine and proportionate features, with a slight protuberance in the septum. The most exaggerated variant is the aquiline nose, like that of actor Adrien Brody. The Roman nose is predominantly found in the regions of southern Europe, among the Slavic peoples, in the Maghreb and in the regions of the Middle East formerly occupied by the Romans. It is estimated that 9 per cent of the world’s population has this type of nose, which is said to be linked to a courageous, ambitious and clear-sighted personality.

Greek Nose

Marble statue of a woman with her eyes closed and a greek nose type

The Greek nose, predominantly found in southern Europe, is visible in most statues of gods and mythological characters of Greco-Latin antiquity. The Greek nose type is considered ideal for its subtle features, without bumps or asymmetries, forming a balanced whole. Kate Middleton and Jennifer Aniston have this type of nose, associated with tolerance, perseverance and an artistic temperament.

Celestial Nose

Double cartoon picture of a blonde woman with a celestial nose

Also called the ‘upturned nose‘, this nasal form predominates in northern European countries. The celestial nose is characterized by its protruding tip curved upwards, with wide fins and holes. It is believed that this form was given by adaptation to the cold, making the tabique more resilient. It is the nose type of 13% of the world’s population, usually characterized by being balanced, practical-minded and reliable people, though some consider this shape to be too aristocratic and almost arrogant.

African Types of Noses

The following are the types of noses we associate with the African continent, mostly seen in people from sub-Saharan Africa, the Atlantic coasts of the continent and the Mediterranean.

Nubian Nose

Cartoon picture of African woman with Nubian type of nose from front and side of the face angles

Also called ‘broad nose’, this shape is characterized by its long wingspan and its short length. The name of this nasal type reveals its origin, as it often belongs to the inhabitants of ancient Numidia, in North Africa. Famous people with a Nubian type of nose include Obama and the singer Rihanna. People with a Nubian nose are usually characterized by their candidness and goodwill, which may lead them to be deceived!

Flat Nose

Cartoon picture of a man from the side with a flat nose

The flat nose is seen predominantly among the Asian, African and Latin American populations, although the Asian and Latin Americans show narrower nasal features than the Africans. These types of noses are known for widening at the tip and opening the nostrils. It is the nasal type of about 5% of the world’s population, associated with a physical and spiritual maturity, as well as a carefree lifestyle.

Asian Types of Noses

Many varieties are noticeable throughout such a vast region as Asia, but the primordial features of these types of noses are recognizable in much of the population stretching from the Middle East to the Pacific coasts.

South East Asia Nose

Manga image of school girl with glasses looking sideways with a south East Asian type of nose

The Southeast Asia nose is characterized by its thin, flat, short-tipped shape. Interest for this nasal form transcended borders and currently interests people all over the world wanting Barbie-Doll kind of features. A famous example of this nose is seen in the American actress Lucy Liu, of Chinese origin. People with Southeast Asia noses are generally perceived as timid, sensitive and spiritual people.

Small Nose

Cartoon image of frontal and profile woman face with a small type of nose

It’s risky to generalize about the largest and most populated continent on the planet. This being said, the Turkish, Caucasian, Indian, Persian and Far Eastern races are characterized by smaller noses than those of the European or African populations. The most distinctive feature is its rounded tips with relatively wide nostrils, which gives a first perception of them being mysterious, calm and helpful people.

How about Rhinoplasty in Turkey?

Due to its central position, the nose serves as a focal point for our observers. There is no doubt that the shape and types of noses influence our appearance, to the point that a slight modification can result in an impressive change of look, as shown by our before and after photos.

At MCAN Health we work with the best surgeons to provide the highest quality rhinoplasty and nasal correction services, including ethnic rhinoplasties, whether for aesthetic or sanitary reasons. Whatever your interest, do not hesitate to contact us so we proceed with a free online medical consultation. We will send you a treatment plan with the full price including hotel, transportation and all medical services!