What do U.S. docs think about the Barbie nose trend?

Question

I really like a lot of the outcomes that I'm seeing with the Barbie noses from rhinoplasty procedures abroad, but I notice American doctors aren't following that trend. What are their criticisms of it aesthetically, and are there functional issues with that look as well?

Kyle Kimura, MD · Answer

This is a really great question! I'll do my best to answer it based on my opinion (different surgeons will likely feel differently). 
I think alot of the controversy arises in the balance of doing what the patient wants/desires vs concerns about the longevity of what some see as a "trend" in rhinoplasty. On one hand, my number one goal is to the patient and achieving their ideal nose. At the same time, I want to do whats right for the patient and sometimes that means trying to guide their decision based on my medical and surgical expertise. If you paint your wall a certain color because its trendy, you can easily repaint the wall in the future if you change your mind. A rhinoplasty is a lifelong decision and while it can be changed or corrected in the future, there is definitely risk associated with subsequent surgeries. I do feel like the "barbie nose" is at high risk of being a trend that may be out of style in the next 10 years. 
The second aspect is that there is certainly a spectrum of these "Barbie noses". Some are very subtle and actually balance well with the rest of their face. Unfortunately though, there are many that are overdone or performed on the wrong patient in term of their overall facial harmony and are likely to lead to issues down the road both aesthetically and functionally. 
At the end of the day, the most important decision for the patient is choosing the right surgeon with specialty training in rhinoplasty who has an understanding of these trends and can have a thorough discussion with each patient about their unique goals and desires.
I hope this helps! Kyle Kimura, MD

Anand D. Patel, MD · Answer

The Barbie nose offers a highly feminine look that can be stunning on some faces but feel out of place on others. The best candidates are petite individuals with delicate bone structure and thin skin, as these traits allow for sharper definition and a more natural result. Ethnic background and family resemblance should also be considered. For some, this is a dramatic change that may create social tension. Computer imaging is an excellent way to preview whether the nose truly “fits” the face.

Selcuk Inanli, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question.
As far as I can understand from your question each person's facial structure is different and each nose should be made in a personalized characteristic. If your facial structure and nose are suitable for barbie nose, it can be done, but first, the realism of your wishes should be discussed with your surgeon.
It would be better face to face consultation.
Best Regards!

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I guess it friends on what specifically you mean by Barbie nose. If it means a small nose you always run the risk of it being too small. I don’t think it’s actually a particular procedure. I recommend that you concentrate on finding a good rhinoplasty surgeon as opposed to one who chains to be an expert at the “Barbie” nose

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

In general, we advise that the goal of rhinoplasty surgery is to allow somebody's nasal appearance to blend in, rather than to be distracting. Additionally, someone should have severe dissatisfaction with their nasal appearance for many years before considering rhinoplasty surgery. In our practice, goals are established utilizing computer Imaging. We have found that this is very helpful for ensuring that we meet people's expectations. Most of our patients do not want their bridges to be overly lowered like that of Barbie. Thank you for this question. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. The Barbie nose trend has many problems most of which occur longterm and require revisions. All of the pictures you are likely seeing show only on-table results with very rarely ever a true non-selfie non-filtered long-term result. This is a major issue. Long-term there are numerous aesthetic and functional issues with these surgeries. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

Rhinoplasty is (or should be) individualized for each patient.  When patients ask for a Barbie nose, they can have it.  It is American patients who are not following the Barbie trend (if there is one), American surgeons more or less follow market demand.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

These Barbie style noses done abroad are very unnatural looking, and you will regret this later in life. Rhinoplasty is the most difficult procedure to perform correctly in the entire field of cosmetic surgery, so it's imperative to find a US based rhinoplasty specialist for the best natural results. You don't want to look like you had a nose job. Digital computer imaging of your nose upon your facial features would also be helpful in the communication process to see what you're trying to accomplish.

What do U.S. docs think about the Barbie nose trend?

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