It's a common belief that noses and ears continue to grow throughout our lives, but that's not entirely accurate.
The Truth About Nose and Ear Growth
While it's true that these features might appear to grow larger with age, the actual growth is minimal. The reason for this perception lies in the fact that the cartilage in our noses and ears continues to soften and weaken as we age. This softening leads to a slight sagging of the cartilage, making the nose and ears appear larger and more prominent.
Factors Contributing to the Perception of Growth
Several factors contribute to this perceived growth:
- Gravity: Over time, gravity pulls down on the cartilage, making it droop and appear longer.
- Skin Elasticity: As we age, our skin loses elasticity, making it thinner and less able to hold its shape. This can accentuate the appearance of sagging cartilage.
- Weight Gain: Weight gain can also contribute to the perception of larger noses and ears, as the extra weight pulls down on the cartilage.
The Bottom Line
While there is some minimal growth in the cartilage of our noses and ears throughout life, the primary reason for their perceived growth is the softening and sagging of the cartilage due to aging.
