Can rhinoplasty surgeon's operate on the glabellar part? (photo)

Question

Can rhinoplasty surgeon's operate on the glabellar part ? My glabella is protruding as time goes by. I think it's due to an accident i had 5 years ago. I want to fix my nose cause it got a hump and it's dificult to breath, but what annoys me most is the glabella, it just looks ugly.I know that under the glabella we got sinuses, and i would like to know if a rhinoplasty surgeon can operate on it since they use the same tool to reduce a nose hump or radix.

James Bonaparte, MD, MSc, FRCSC · Answer

Interesting question, not one that people often ask. Its important to note first, that the glabellar region of the forehead as well as the upper nose (we call it the rhinion) are not important in breathing. You can think of the area you breath as going straight back, parellel to a the horizon. Don't get me wrong, people with VERY deviated nasal bones can have trouble breathing but it is not often the case. With respect to your problems, what you seem to be looking for is a reduction in your frontal bone at the glabella area. This is easier said then done. To do this, is a bit of a complicated procedure as most people require a very large incision in your hair line and then lift the tissue (your forehead). there are some other ways to do this, but this is the most common. Using a radix rasp like you mentioned would not work in my opinion. The issue then changes to safety. Your frontal sinuses are right under there (as is your brain!). So obviously the person needs to be confident with the procedure as the frontal bone can vary in thickness for people. Cosmetic facial plastic surgeons who also do sinus surgery would be a good starting place, as would any Plastic Surgeon who does trauma surgery.  Here in Ottawa, Canada we rarely do this kind of work when doing a  Rhinoplasty as most patients do not ask about it. Good luck!

Eugene Kim, MD · Answer

A plastic surgeon can operate on your nose and the forehead, including the glabella.  You will need an examination first to determine what the cause is for the protrusion.  It may be better to approach the glabella from the scalp similar to the approach in an endoscopic browlift instead of the nose.

Evan Ransom, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the picture and your question. In rhinoplasty, the top of the procedure is generally the nasal bridge or radix (root of the nose).  The glabella and brow bones are separate structures with different characteristics. These require an entirely different surgical approach.  That said, adding a soft tissue graft to an overly deep radix can improve the appearance of the glabella and brow by changing the angle it makes with the nose.  Best of luck moving forward!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Many plastic surgeons are comfortable operating on multiple areas of the skeleton, but glabellar reduction may not be the best route.  Physical exam and a clear discussion of goals as well as an explanation of facial aesthetics should be undertaken before a surgical plan is developed.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Richard J. Brown, MD · Answer

As a Rhinoplasty surgeon we are all well trained to operate on all parts of the face including the glabella. If you seek a surgeon, make sure you find a board certified surgeon who specializes in cosmetic nose surgery.

Can rhinoplasty surgeon's operate on the glabellar part? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Can rhinoplasty surgeon's operate on the glabellar part?

Answer: Can rhinoplasty surgeon's operate on the glabellar part?

Answer: Surgery on Glabella

Answer: Surgery on Glabella

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Can rhinoplasty surgeon's operate on the glabellar part? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Can rhinoplasty surgeon's operate on the glabellar part?

Answer: Can rhinoplasty surgeon's operate on the glabellar part?

Answer: Surgery on Glabella

Answer: Surgery on Glabella

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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.