Could a rasp procedure improve my dorsal hump? What are the risks? (Photo)

Question

I had an open rhinoplasty 8 months ago and am very pleased with the results. There is a small residual dorsal hump that my surgeon said could be reduced with the rasp procedure under local anesthesia, and he left the option entirely up to me. What are the risks of that procedure? For someone like me who is content with the result but would like some refinement along the bridge, should I not mess with it? I've been reading about the risk of the nose appearing wider with this procedure.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for posting your question and series of photos. During a revision rhinoplasty procedure, you aren’t required to change any of the features of your nose that you’d like to keep intact. Since you’re only interested in reducing the appearance of the dorsal hump, nasal rasps can be used to file it down safely while preserving the rest of your nose structure. 
However, being that the rhinoplasty recovery phase can last up to one year, most surgeons suggest waiting until after this point to make any further cosmetic changes. I recommend maintaining in-person contact with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon who can assess your surgical history and aesthetic goals.

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Good Evening! A rasp procedure to improve the hump is a great option. You're correct, though, that there is a chance for creating irregularity any time we attempt a revision - no matter how small. When rasping, we're filing bone down and you can create unintentional inflammation in the area. If you're pleased overall with your nose at 8 months, give it some more time to see if any improvements are seen. I recommend waiting a minimum of 8-12 months before talking about a minor nasal revision. Hope this helps you!

Philip S. Schoenfeld, MD, FACS · Answer

If you are pleased with the appearance of your nose you should simply be happy.  Aside from that, the residual fullness on the dorsum can be managed with a small rasp under local anesthesia without any risk of widening the appearance of your nose.

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes , rasping the bone under local anesthesia as an office procedure, usually done with some oral sedation is a short procedure with minimal recovery and mi Inam risk. For subtle improvements it is an effective orocedire

Could a rasp procedure improve my dorsal hump? What are the risks? (Photo)

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Answer: Could a rasp procedure improve my dorsal hump?

Answer: Could a rasp procedure improve my dorsal hump?

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Could a rasp procedure improve my dorsal hump? What are the risks? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Could a rasp procedure improve my dorsal hump?

Answer: Could a rasp procedure improve my dorsal hump?

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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