If a shield graft is used to lengthen the nose slightly, what does it look like?

Shield grafts are usually fashioned out of your own septal cartilage and placed over the nasal domes to help better define the nasal tip. When used appropriately in patients, you would not see or feel the graft and your nasal tip would look more refined and more defined. It is best used in thick skinned patients. In patients with thinner skin, sometimes they can be visible if not properly placed. It is best to arrange a consultation with a surgeon who is an expert in rhinoplasty who also performs in office computer imaging to better understand your goals. 

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  A shield graft is a cartilage graft obtained from the septum and sutured into the nasal tip for improved contour.   Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most
important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon