From the profile, which nose structure lies at a right angle to the upper lip?

• A. Ala nasi
• B. Septum nasi
• C. Columna Nasi
• D. Dorsum nasi

Answer: (C)

In profile view, the nasal anatomy that sits vertically between the nostrils and extends downward is the columna nasi. This nasal columella forms a line that is effectively perpendicular to the plane of the upper lip, so it appears to stand at a right angle to the lip in side view. The other structures have different orientations: the alae nasi are the side walls and sit laterally around the nostrils; the septum nasi is the internal partition between the nostrils; and the dorsum nasi is the nasal bridge along the top of the nose. Therefore, the columna nasi is the structure that lies at a right angle to the upper lip in profile.