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Rituo is not a treatment designed to significantly lift the base of the nostrils; rather, it is a skin booster intended to optimize the environment of the skin and superficial tissues and improve firmness and texture.

 

"I'm concerned about the hollows at the base of my nostrils," "I want to naturally smooth out the early signs of nasolabial folds," "I'm a little hesitant about hyaluronic acid." In response to these needs, interest is growing in Rituo, a skin booster that focuses on the ECM (extracellular matrix).

 

In the field of cosmetic surgery as well, approaches that improve skin quality and the tissue environment are gaining attention, and the focus is shifting from treatments that solely emphasize volume to those that prioritize quality management.

 

In this article, we will systematically explain—from the perspective of cosmetic surgery—the purpose of using Lituo at the base of the nostrils, its indications, expected effects, key differences from hyaluronic acid, and considerations regarding safety and injection depth.

 

To put it simply, Lituo has “Before & After” results showing its use at the base of the nostrils, and it is effective for correcting mild indentations and loss of firmness. However, unlike hyaluronic acid, it is not a treatment designed to create significant height or volume. It is essential to correctly understand its role and limitations as a cosmetic surgical procedure.

The Relationship Between the Lituo and the Base of the Nostrils (From a Cosmetic Surgery Perspective)

The base of the nostrils is a key area that influences facial shading and the origin of nasolabial folds. In cosmetic surgery, we conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the skeletal structure, ligaments, fat volume, skin thickness, tension in the facial muscles, and age-related changes to appropriately allocate the “improvement in quality” achieved by Rituo and the “correction of shape” achieved by hyaluronic acid.

 

Rituo is an option designed specifically to optimize the tissue environment rather than to add volume.

What Is the Base of the Nostrils? Why It’s Important in Cosmetic Surgery

The base of the nostrils is located at the root of the alar (nostrils) and affects the three-dimensional appearance of the mouth area, the starting point of the nasolabial folds, and the E-line of the profile.

 

As we age, the subcutaneous tissue thins and hollows become more pronounced, making nasolabial folds appear deeper and giving the face a more tired or aged appearance. In cosmetic surgery, it is crucial to determine at which layer and to what extent to fill in the hollows in this area.

Common Treatments for Concerns Regarding the Base of the Nostrils (Cosmetic Surgery)

There are several options for improving the base of the nostrils, and plastic surgeons design treatments by combining the following methods.

• Hyaluronic acid (effective for contouring and adding volume)

• Fat Grafting (Medium- to Long-Term Volume Restoration)

• Implants / Aristocratic Surgery (Surgical Volume Augmentation)

• Skin Boosters (such as Rituo, which improve skin quality and density)

Among these, Lituo is a “quality-focused treatment” that improves the condition of the skin and superficial tissues. Its role differs from that of a “shape-focused treatment,” which enhances facial contours.

What Is Lituo? The Basics of the ECM Skin Booster

Rituo is a skin booster that focuses on the ECM (Extracellular Matrix). The ECM is composed of collagen, elastin, glycoproteins, proteoglycans, and other components, and provides a scaffold that facilitates cellular function as well as a platform for signal transduction.

 

Rituo aims to complement this ECM environment and create an optimal setting for fibroblasts to function effectively, thereby improving skin density, firmness, and texture, and restoring a “somehow younger” appearance.

Can Rituo Be Injected into the Base of the Nostrils? Indications and Limitations

If the "Before & After" cases are appropriately selected, Retuo injections into the base of the nostrils are possible. However, the goal is strictly to optimize the tissue environment, not to add volume. This approach is suitable in the following situations:

• The skin is thin, and a lack of firmness is noticeable

• Shallow indentations have started to appear as I've gotten older

• I want to reduce the appearance of early, mild nasolabial folds

• I want to naturally enhance the texture

On the other hand, when there are large bony depressions or a desire to clearly project the base of the nostrils forward, Rituo alone may not be sufficient. In such cases, we consider hyaluronic acid, fat grafting, or surgical treatment. From a cosmetic surgery perspective, clearly defining the respective roles of shape and texture is the key to success.

Differences from Hyaluronic Acid (Its Role in Cosmetic Surgery)

Although they are often confused, Rituo and hyaluronic acid are fundamentally different treatment concepts.

• Hyaluronic acid: It tends to add volume immediately and is effective for contouring. While it can physically lift the base of the nostrils, potential issues include an unnatural appearance if too much is injected, the risk of vascular embolism, and absorption over time.

• Rituo: Specializes in improving skin texture and the underlying tissue environment. It focuses primarily on enhancing firmness, density, and texture, with limited volume-building capabilities. This treatment is not intended to provide immediate volume enhancement.

Therefore, it is more accurate to view Lituo not as a “substitute for hyaluronic acid,” but as a “complementary treatment with a different purpose.” In cosmetic surgery, treatment plans are designed based on this complementary relationship.

Expected Benefits and Common Changes

• Improved Skin Firmness and Density

• Reducing the Appearance of Minor Dents

• Softening the Early Signs of Nasolabial Folds

• Improved Skin Texture and Natural Rejuvenation

Rather than dramatic changes in form, it is characterized by natural, refined changes—such as “looking youthful upon closer inspection” or “softer shading.”

Combination Strategy: Hyaluronic Acid × Rituo

In cosmetic surgery, a two-step approach—using hyaluronic acid to correct skeletal deficiencies and Rituo to improve the condition of the skin and underlying tissues—is effective. By enhancing both shape and texture simultaneously, it is possible to achieve a more natural and long-lasting rejuvenation without relying on excessive volume.

 

Please understand that, because our objectives differ, we are not competitors but partners.

Anatomy and Safety: Precautions for Injections in Cosmetic Surgery

The base of the nostrils is an anatomically important area through which branches of the facial artery run. In cosmetic surgery, it is essential to understand the course of these blood vessels and to strictly control the layers, volume, pressure, and flow rate. The following situations, in particular, should be avoided:

• Injection too deep (unnecessary proximity to blood vessels)

• Massive Infusion (Rapid Increase in Pressure within a Tissue Compartment)

• Injection under high pressure (increased risk of vascular complications)

To ensure safety, it is important to follow these principles: injecting small amounts into the appropriate layers, using blunt needles, verifying negative pressure, and having a practitioner with a thorough understanding of anatomy.

Injection Layers and Techniques

Rituo is primarily administered into the dermis and superficial subcutaneous layers. Unlike hyaluronic acid, which is used to create volume on the periosteum, Rituo is designed with the concept of “nourishing the skin itself.” The key is to vary the application technique—using micro-dispersion in dot, line, or fan patterns—to avoid excessive localization.

Number of Sessions, Intervals, and Downtime

Generally, the initial treatment plan consists of about three sessions, with follow-up maintenance sessions recommended every few months to half a year. Since the optimal approach varies depending on skin condition and treatment goals, an individual assessment at a cosmetic surgery clinic is essential.

 

During the recovery period, you may experience redness, swelling, mild bruising, and tenderness for a few days, but these symptoms typically improve over time. It is best to avoid this treatment immediately before an event.

Who It's For / Who It's Not For

Suitable for

• I'm concerned about a slight indentation at the base of my nostrils

• I want to naturally soften the early signs of nasolabial folds

• I want to improve my skin texture and firmness at the same time

• Hyaluronic acid alone doesn't provide enough texture.

• Seeking a natural and elegant rejuvenation

Not suitable for

• Significant skeletal depression

• I want to clearly project the base of my nostrils forward

• I want to correct my protruding lower lip (protruding lower lip) through surgical means.

• I want an immediate and noticeable increase in volume

If any of the above apply, treatments such as hyaluronic acid injections, fat grafting, or implants may be the first-line treatment options.

Custom Design for Each "Before & After"

Even if the base of the nostrils looks similar, the underlying causes differ in each “Before & After” case. We conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the skeletal structure, ligaments, fat, skin thickness, muscle tone, and degree of aging to determine which treatment to perform, at what depth, and in what quantity.

 

While some "Before & After" results are achieved with Lituo alone, for others, combining it with hyaluronic acid or other treatments yields the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Will Lituo alone get rid of my smile lines?

A. This treatment does not completely eliminate deep wrinkles. However, by improving skin firmness and texture, it can naturally soften their appearance.

Q. Is the base of the nostrils a dangerous area?

A. Because important blood vessels are located nearby, the procedure must be performed by a practitioner with a thorough understanding of anatomy. As with any injectable treatment, we recommend having it performed at a cosmetic surgery clinic that strictly adheres to safety protocols.

Q. Does it last longer than hyaluronic acid?

A. Because their mechanisms of action differ, a direct comparison is not possible. The primary purpose of Rituo is to optimize the tissue environment, while that of hyaluronic acid is to add volume. The choice depends on the desired outcome.

Q. I already have hyaluronic acid in my skin. Can I use this product in combination with it?

A. These treatments can be used in combination, subject to an evaluation of your condition. One possible approach would be to use Rituo to improve skin texture and the superficial skin environment while maintaining skeletal correction. Please consult with a cosmetic surgery clinic to discuss a personalized treatment plan.

About Our Clinic’s (Cosmetic Surgery) Policies and Information Services

At our cosmetic surgery clinic, we prioritize scientific evidence and anatomical safety above all else when selecting procedures and designing injection plans. Whenever official materials (such as brochures, product websites, and “Before & After” collections) are available, we share them with our patients to support decision-making based on objective information.

 

For procedures for which we cannot locate relevant documentation, we will carefully explain the general medical principles and may ask you to provide documentation if necessary. Please rest assured that even if written materials are not available, we will provide clear explanations verbally and with illustrations.

Summary

Rituo is not a treatment designed to add volume to the base of the nostrils; rather, it is a skin booster that focuses on the extracellular matrix (ECM) to improve the quality of the skin and underlying tissues. While it is an option for those concerned about mild hollows or a lack of firmness, other treatments—such as hyaluronic acid—may be more appropriate for skeletal-related depressions.

 

When treating the base of the nostrils, accurately identifying the cause and selecting a treatment method tailored to each individual leads to natural-looking results that provide a high level of satisfaction. I recommend a length like this, as it maintains consistency with the length of my previous blog posts.

 

Developing a ”skin care” plan tailored to your needs—based on consultations with an experienced cosmetic surgeon and ongoing follow-up evaluations—will lead to long-term satisfaction.

 

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