Can I reduce my nose tip size without a silicone implant? (photos)

Question

I am Asian , I have a big nose tip which really bother me. I had my alarplasty 7 months ago. My plastic surgeon told me there is a high chance of unevenness if I get tip plasty with ear cartilage alone. He suggested using a thin silicone implant . But I am not comfortable with implant , then he suggested using buttock crease fat to for my nose bridge instead . All I want is to reduce my tip size. Is it doable without silicone implant ?

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your photographs, you may benefit from a tip refining rhinoplasty. Your surgeon can accomplish this by trimming, suturing, and reshaping the cartilage in your lower nose.  I do not ever recommend silicone implants for the nose, as there is a high risk of complications including malposition, infection, and extrusion.  Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and not just a computer animation system.  You should be able to view numerous pictures of actual patients with noses similar to yours performed by your surgeon.  If you cannot find enough real before and after pictures, then consider continuing your search for a surgeon.
 
 Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D. FACS

Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Suleyman Tas, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for your question. Since a nose is a 3 dimensional structure while reshaping the nose, all nasal structures and whole face proportions should be taken into consideration. Therefore when alar base reduction is done the tip should be harmonized with the dorsum and the airway deterioration should be avoided. I use suturing techniques to achieve a narrower, refined and aesthetically pleasing tip and don't recommend using ear cartilage or silicone implant. Since you are 7 months post op a revision rhinoplasty can be performed not before one year following your surgery. 
Comparing to the open rhinoplasty Closed and Atraumatic technique in Rhinoplasty minimizes swelling and bruises; maximizes healing, prevents tissue damage and eliminates a scar on the columella. To find out more please click on the attached link.
  
Best Regards

Gary Linkov, MD · Answer

Hi and thank you for your photos and question. You might benefit from tip defining procedures using either cartilage grafting or suturing techniques that would harmonize your nose and create a more natural, elegant look. I suggest your schedule an in person appointment with your surgeon or a board certified surgeon with extensive experience in rhinoplasty. Find someone you connect with, who will listen to your concerns and provide you with a framework for what is possible.  
Best,
Gary Linkov, MD
Rhinoplasty Specialist
Manhattan

Matthew Kienstra, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes it is. Tip surgery can be done alone without addressing the dorsum. Septal cartilage is readily available usually if you haven't had previous nasal surgery and can be used as a graft without silicone or ear cartilage. You likely need a graft as your skin looks thick. I would recommend you see an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon - I see you are in Florida. Ed Farrior in Tampa and Rick Davis in Miami are both excellent.

Jay Calvert, MD, FACS · Answer

This is worth a discussion with your Plastic Surgeon.  If you are not happy with the results, you must return to your surgeons to have a discussion about the options.  Typically, revision surgery is offered to patients who need slight adjustments and will see better results.

Can I reduce my nose tip size without a silicone implant? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Nasal tip reduction

Answer: Nasal tip reduction

Answer: Rhinoplasty Issues

Answer: Rhinoplasty Issues

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.

Can I reduce my nose tip size without a silicone implant? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Nasal tip reduction

Answer: Nasal tip reduction

Answer: Rhinoplasty Issues

Answer: Rhinoplasty Issues

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.