Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping surgery, is one of the most rewarding and nuanced procedures we as experienced plastic surgeons perform. Patients come to us for many reasons—some cosmetic, others functional. For some, the driving impetus for seeking a consultation is to correct a bump that has bothered them for years. For others, it is restoring facial harmony after trauma or improving breathing issues. Ultimately, the goal is consistent: to give each patient a nose that looks natural, functions well, and helps them feel more confident.
During a rhinoplasty consultation, we spend significant time listening to the patient’s goals and evaluating their facial structure from all angles. The treatment plan is never one-size-fits-all; every nose—and every face—is unique. Understanding what bothers a patient and what result they desire is key to designing a surgical plan that will achieve a harmonious, balanced appearance.
Interestingly, while most patients wish to reduce or refine a nose they feel is too prominent, a smaller group seeks to augment certain areas. For instance, patients with a flat or underdeveloped nasal bridge—common in some ethnic populations—may want to build up this area. We can accomplish this with a patient’s own cartilage (usually from the septum or ear) or with a silicone implant. Cartilage grafts are biocompatible and integrate well, while silicone implants are easier to place and shape precisely but carry a slightly higher risk of displacement or infection. Both techniques, when done skillfully, offer excellent and long-lasting results.
