Is a Bulbous Nose with a Thin Bridge a Problem with the Skin or Actual Bone? (photo)

Question

Hi, I'm an 18 year old teenager and I've never liked my nose. I've always found it bulbous and not matching with my face. My friend once tried to thin it with photoshop and she said that a thinner nose really actually didn't fit my face. My nose is actually a bit thinner at the upper bridge, but then gets bulbous. Should I get a rhinoplasty to correct this? If so, how much would the procedure cost? Also, is this a problem with my skin or bone structure?

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Dear Valentinaxoxo,

	
		You can change the shape of the nose to make it look thinner
	
		I would add a little bridge and work to refine the tip
	
		You would get an improvement in the bulbosity of the tip, it wouldn't be as refined as someone who has thinner skin
	
		Overally, I think you would be happy with a rhinoplasty
	
		The costs do vary, make sure you go to someone who is qualified, not just based on price


	Best regards,

	Nima Shemirani

Stewart Wang, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, thanks for the photos which always make the discussion a bit easier. However, an in person consultation is still critical. A bulbous nasal tip like the one shown on your photos is a combination of thick skin and cartilage underneath it. You can reshape the tip of your nose by changing the cartilages around your nasal tip. A tip rhinoplasty will help improve your nasal tip shape and make your nose looks more proportional. The procedure cost can vary quite a bit depending each surgeon. It's best to have at least 2 to 3 consultations with different surgeons. Find a treatment plan that makes the most sense to you.

	Best Wishes,

	Stewart Wang, MD FACS, Wang Plastic Surgery

Jeffrey Rockmore, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for providing the photos. While photos are not a substitute for an actual exam, they are helpful. The goal of a rhinoplasty is to bring your nose into balance with the rest of your face. When I look at your pictures, your tip does seem a bit wide and out of proportion with the rest of your face. A rhinoplasty could help with this.

	The fullness of the tip is a combination of the thickness of the skin and the contour of the underlying cartilages. If the cartilages are shaped in a more rounded fashion, or are separated,  the result can be a tip that is bulbous. The bones are not involved in the creation of the nasal tip.

	I do think that you would benefit from a rhinoplasty. The cost depends on the area in which you live, and averages are available at many websites. In NY, this type of rhinoplasty would cost around $6000. I would suggest consulting with a plastic surgeon to discuss the specifics of your nose. At that time, a realistic cost estimate could be given.

	Best of luck with your nose.

	Jeff Rockmore

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Rhinoplasty for the bulbous tip and wide nostrils is due to the slightly thick skin and cartilage. Your nostril width is slightly wide. Your bone is fine. See an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon for the best result.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The bulbous look is created with wide and thick cartilages along with thick skin in the tip area. These issues are addressed through the rhinoplasty surgery. The cost for rhinoplasty is around $7,000 which includes the operating room, anesthesia and the surgeon’s fee for performing the procedure.

Is a Bulbous Nose with a Thin Bridge a Problem with the Skin or Actual Bone? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Rhinoplasty for the bulbous tip and wide nostrils.

Answer: Rhinoplasty for the bulbous tip and wide nostrils.

Answer: Bulbous nose is due to thick cartilage and skin

Answer: Bulbous nose is due to thick cartilage and skin

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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Is a Bulbous Nose with a Thin Bridge a Problem with the Skin or Actual Bone? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Rhinoplasty for the bulbous tip and wide nostrils.

Answer: Rhinoplasty for the bulbous tip and wide nostrils.

Answer: Bulbous nose is due to thick cartilage and skin

Answer: Bulbous nose is due to thick cartilage and skin

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.