Is my nose skin too thick for decent rhinoplasty? (Photo)

Question

I have an extremely large nose with a bulbous tip and large nostrils. It doesn't suit my face since I have a recessed lower jaw and poor forward development. I'm not looking for a small, dainty nose and wouldn't even mind it being a bit on the larger side (like David Gandy's). However I would like to reduce the tip and reduce the size of the nostrils. Is this possible? What can be done? I keep reading that thick nasal skin severely restricts what can be done, and I suspect mine is thick.

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

You most certainly are a good candidate for rhinoplasty. You sound like you have reasonable expectations which is important. A well performed rhinoplasty can reduce the length and size of the bridge, as well as making the tip and nostrils smaller. A natural result along with a masculine appearance of the nose is most important.

Jeffrey Umansky, MD · Answer

An in-person examination would be necessary to properly asses you, based on your photos you do appear to be a candidate for a rhinoplasty.  A rhinoplasty is an entirely customized procedure based on the needs and aesthetic goals of a given patient. Given the goals you have described, I think you would benefit from a tip refinement and nostril reduction with possible shaving of your bridge bump. I recommend setting up a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss the best procedure option to suit your needs. Best of luck!

Steven J. Pearlman, MD, FACS · Answer

It is impossible to tell exactly how thick your skin is, but it does not look as thick as you make it sound from the description. Of course, nothing substitutes for a personal consultation, but I believe your nose can be made smaller and the hump reduced to make a visible difference.

Thuy-Van Tina Ho, MD · Answer

Dear William Laws,
Thank you for your question. It is difficult to make an accurate assessment and recommendations based on photographs alone. I recommend you seek an in-person consultation with a facial plastic surgeon or plastic surgeon who is a rhinoplasty specialist who can perform a thorough examination and discuss with you the surgical plan that will best meet your treatment goals. If you do demonstrate thick skin, the types of changes that can be achieved with rhinoplasty may be more subtle but they are still possible. If your jaw is recessed as well, you could also benefit from possible chin augmentation.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Based on this photo but short of in person evaluation it is my impression that you are a good candidate for regular rhinoplasty. In person evaluation and discussion about your options with a plastic surgeon with good reputation in rhinoplasty is recommended. Good luck.

Is my nose skin too thick for decent rhinoplasty? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Rhinoplasty: Thick Skin

Answer: Rhinoplasty: Thick Skin

Answer: Standard rhinoplasty

Answer: Standard rhinoplasty

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.

Is my nose skin too thick for decent rhinoplasty? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Rhinoplasty: Thick Skin

Answer: Rhinoplasty: Thick Skin

Answer: Standard rhinoplasty

Answer: Standard rhinoplasty

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.