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Is my Nose Really Not Suitable for Rhinoplasty?

I went for a Rhinoplasty consultation 2 years ago, and the surgeon said nothing could be done for me. I have a very big, wide, round nose with large nostrils which dominates my face and I really had my heart set on having it re-shaped to a smaller 'less round' and bulbous shape. Is it true that nothing can be done, and my type of nose isn't suitable for surgery, or is it worth having a few more consultations?

Asked 31 months ago by Tinkerbell1970 in Oxford, UK
Sort 12 expert answers by:
+1

Important to have more than one consultation

It is important to get another consultation or even two additional consultations so that you feel confident about the opinions expressed regarding whether or not to proceed with a rhinoplasty. There is nothing wrong with getting three different opinions from three surgeons. If all three surgeons recommend no rhinoplasty surgery, then I would heed their advice.
William Portuese, MD
Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Nose Suitable for Rhinoplasty?

It is safe to say that all virgin noses can be improved with rhinoplasty as long as reasonable expectations are established pre-operatively. This may not be true for some noses that have undergone numerous procedures (for example, Michael Jackson). I suggest getting a second opinion from an experienced surgeon.
Richard W. Fleming, MD
Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

A Weir Alar Base resection or nostril narrowing Rhinoplasty may help

Wide flared nostrils can be reduced with a technique called an Alar Base Resection.This procedure can bring nostril width back into proper [proportion with the width of the face.Seek consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who is experienced in Rhinoplasty.See before and after Photos of Weir Alar Base resection Rhinoplasty.
Brooke R. Seckel, MD
Boston Plastic Surgeon
+1

Seek the Advice of a Rhinoplasty Specialist

Most patients are candidates for rhinoplasty. The degree to which the nose can be made smaller depends on the individuals characteristics. Seek a second opinion from one or more surgeons who specialize in rhinoplasty It is possible for rhinoplasty results to appear natural as long as the nose is proportional and in balance with the other facial features. The best nose job is one in which other people cant tell that surgery has been performed. To get a better understanding of what your... more
C. Spencer Cochran, MD
Dallas Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Rhinoplasty - too Big??

Your question may be more accurately answered if photographs showing your concerns were attached. It is hard to buy clothing for someone without knowing their size or cook a meal without knowing what ingredients are available. I think all are in agreement that seeing another doctor is the right thing to do. See my other responses on rhinoplasty consultation tips - they may help you with communication = your expectations / doctors ability. See if the Doctor has before and after... more
Michael Kulick, MD
San Francisco Plastic Surgeon
+1

Rhinoplasty is suitable for big noses

The surgeon you saw was probably being a little too negative about his recommendations. From what you described, it sounds like you have a nose which is a challenging one for a rhinoplasty. However, no matter how big or wide a nose is, a correctly performed rhinoplasty can make an improvement. It is likely given the way you have described your nose that you also have very thick skin. This is a major challenge in rhinoplasty. If your nose has very thick skin, it will be harder for the... more
John Diaz, MD
Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon
+1

You need another opinion!

Hello Tinkerbell1970, I agree that there is no nose too big for surgery. Your expectations must meet reality though. Depending on your ethnicity, there will be limits to how small you can get and still have a nose that looks harmonious with your face and still functions as a nose should. Make sure you seek out a rhinoplasty specialist who can work with you using rhinoplasty simulation software to get the best idea of what you have in mind. Bringing in pictures of other noses you like... more
Manish H. Shah, MD
Denver Plastic Surgeon
+1

Nose too big for surgery

No nose is too big for surgery. You should get a few more consultations. You should evaluate your nose  and write down on paper exactly what you are trying to accomplish and it will help the consulting physician to figure out if she/he can deliver that or not. Regards
Tanveer Janjua, MD
Bedminster Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Need further evalutions

The question may be is it possible to change your nose to meet your expectations. As others have stated any suggestions will require photographic evaluation. It is important to understand that nasal surgery can be quite complex and there are different levels of expertise. Another opinion and consultation is advisable.
Jeffrey Zwiren, MD
Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
+1

No one can give you an answer to this without seeing a photo.

No one can give you an answer to this without seeing a photo - different doctors have different degrees of expertise when it comes to noses. If you go to an expert on noses, maybe some improvements can be made.
William B. Rosenblatt, MD
New York Plastic Surgeon
+1

Rhinoplasty candidacy.

Your question would be easier to address if you could post a picture. Wide nostrils, and a round, bulbous appearance are common complaints that may be addressed during Rhinoplasty surgery. You should consult a board-certified, experienced rhinoplasty surgeon for a second opinion. I hope this helps, and best regards.
Eric M. Joseph, MD
West Orange Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Nose not suitable for Rhinoplasty

Dear Tinkerbell1970, I SERIOUSLY doubt it. But, it is hardly fair for me or other to be expected to post intelligent opinions without being provided with any close-up photos. Ideally, 2 side shots, one frontal and one head on with your head pushed back showing us the nostril's (Worm's eye view). I am sure my colleagues and I would very much like to advise you based on your actual circumstances.
Peter A. Aldea, MD
Memphis Plastic Surgeon
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