Ethnic Rhinoplasty
Though they are not necessarily shared by all within the group, people of some ethnicities tend to have characteristic nasal forms that differ from those common amongst Caucasian people. Ethnic rhinoplasty surgery uses various techniques to respond to these differences. With these specialized practices, patients of African, East Asian, and Hispanic ethnicity can receive the rhinoplasty results they desire without diminishing the appearance of their ethnic heritage. Ethnic patients should select a surgeon who understands and can address their individual needs.
Am I a Candidate for Ethnic Rhinoplasty Surgery?
Just as with traditional rhinoplasty, candidates for ethnic rhinoplasty are those individuals who are unhappy with the size or shape of their nose, or those who experience functional difficulties due to their nasal structure. Ethnic rhinoplasty candidates are those individuals who wish to alter the shape of their nose due to specific features that are typical of their ethnic group. For instance, many people of Asian and African descent have noses with wider bases and less-sharply defined tips. The skin on the tip of the nose is also usually thicker, giving it a rounded, bulbous appearance. Ethnic rhinoplasty alters the nasal features, including the wide, flat bridge and the “hump” in the ridge of the nose that are common in some individuals. Ethnic rhinoplasty is even further specialized for women, and is designed to give an overly prominent nose a more refined and feminine appearance.
What Techniques are Used for Ethnic Rhinoplasty?
Like other types of rhinoplasty surgery, ethnic rhinoplasty seeks to reshape the nose by altering the structure of the bone and cartilage beneath without undue external scarring. Ethnic patients have a unique set of needs when it comes to rhinoplasty surgery. For example, the skin around the nose of African Americans tends to be particularly thick, making changes more difficult. Because there are some techniques more commonly used for ethnic patients, it is important for to choose a rhinoplasty surgeon who is familiar with methods associated with ethnic rhinoplasty. For patients with “flat” noses, a surgeon may graft cartilage from elsewhere in the body to add volume. They may also utilize artificial implants on the bridge of the nose to give it better definition. Similarly, a surgeon may use open rhinoplasty surgery to narrow the base of a wider nose. During an initial consultation, a surgeon will discuss the best options for treatment that will help you achieve your aesthetic and functional goals.
What Kind of Results Can I Expect?
When ethnic rhinoplasty is performed by a skilled cosmetic surgeon, patients who undergo the procedure can reap the same benefits as Caucasian patients. Ethnic rhinoplasty effectively changes the size or shape of the nose while preserving the integrity of one’s ethnic appearance. This is important in order for the results to appear natural. Using techniques such as those discussed above, a cosmetic surgeon can make the nose appear straighter, longer, or narrower. These changes, no matter how subtle, can have a significant impact on a patient’s appearance, bringing balance and symmetry to the face. Just as with traditional rhinoplasty surgery, the results of the procedure may take up to one year to fully develop. However, once complete, the results last a lifetime.
Many Patients Want to Know …
Does Ethnic Rhinoplasty Cost More than a Regular Nose Job?
While no two practices are alike, the cost of ethnic rhinoplasty is typically about the same as traditional rhinoplasty. The price of your rhinoplasty surgery will depend on a number of factors including the amount of changes that are being made to the nose. When choosing a surgeon for ethnic rhinoplasty, it is particularly important to choose one who is experienced and skilled in these specific procedures. While utilizing a well-practiced surgeon may initially cost more money, the results are well worth the price. Find out more about the cost of ethnic rhinoplasty.
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