Scared my nose shape with Rhinoplasty could be a disaster, what should I ask for so that doesn't happen?

Thank you for your question. It is important that you vet your surgeon to be sure that you are only using a board certified facial plastic surgeon with experience performing an African-American rhinoplasty. As you consult with board certified facial plastic surgeons, please pay attention to their years of experience, training/education, number of rhinoplasties performed per year, number of African-American rhinoplasties performed per year, patient testimonials, patient before/after photos and, of course, their level of board certification. Always consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon.  

Best wishes,

You need to do two things to increase the probability of getting a result you will be happy with.  First of all you need to figure out specifically what it is about your nose you don't like and the difference you want the surgeon to achieve.  Second, you need to choose your surgeon carefully. Go on several consults if necessary until you feel you have found the surgeon you feel can best deliver the results you are seeking.  If you concentrate on those two goals you will likely get a very nice result.  Best wishes

Hello:Thank you for your thoughtful and important question. This is a very good starting point for any patient considering rhinoplasty surgery. Often patients, want to maintain their overall look while at the same time modify and enhance another feature of their face. This is where rhinoplasty surgery can be very detailed depending on your desired results and what it is that concerns you. First, as a double board certified facial plastic surgeon in New York City, I have over 20 years of experience. Specifically, I specialize in ethnic rhinoplasty and in your instance this would be under the sub category of African American Rhinoplasty. A board certified facial plastic surgeon will understand the anatomy of your nose in relation to your ethnic features. You certainly do no not want to erase the features that are true to your ethnic background. However, modifications to the width and projection of your nose, done in a manner that suits the overall balance of your face can help you get a result you are happy with and not end up with what you are concerned being disastrous results.Second, you mention you "sort of" want rhinoplasty. What specifically bothers you about your nose?I am attaching a website link that explains in more detail what African American Rhinoplasty is as well as a video that discusses the overview of this procedure. I hope you find this information helpful to you as you start the decision making process. Please feel free to contact our office with any questions you have and we would be more than happy to try and provide you with an answer.Sincerely,Philip J. Miller, MD, FACSDouble Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Hello,I understand your concern. Your nose would benefit from structural grafts to reshape and support your tip, and possibly grafts to augment your bridge. In addition, your nostrils (ala) would benefit from a procedure to narrow their attachment to the lip/cheek and also reduce their 'flare'. Go visit a few surgeons to have your photos digitally altered to see you potential outcome. Best of luck!

This is a very valid concern when undergoing any surgery or procedure.  The best recommendation is to have an in person consultation with a board certified specialist who is thorough and can help you achieve the results you seek.  See if he/she shares your aesthetic eye.  3-dimensional computer imaging can also help you visualize what you may look like afterwards and serve as an important communication tool with your surgeon.