Can I get my dorsal hump shaved only a small bit? (photo)

Improving the cosmetic appearance of the
nose by diminishing the dorsal hump and refining its shape, yet having the
result look natural, is a frequent request from patients seeking a rhinoplasty.

Following the advice from a surgeon on
this or any other website who proposes to tell you exactly what to do based on
2 dimensional photos without examining you, physically feeling the tissue,
assessing your desired outcome, taking a full medical history, and discussing
the pros and cons of the operative procedure would not be in your best
interest. I would suggest you find a plastic surgeon with extensive nasal
surgery experience who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
and ideally a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
(ASAPS) or
the Canadian Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (CSAPS) or a facial plastic surgeon that you trust and are comfortable with.
You should discuss your concerns with that surgeon in person.There are many variables that contribute to surgical fees:
the extent of the procedure, geographic location of the surgical practice, the credentials and level of training of
the surgeon, his or her expertise and reputation, the fee for the anesthesia
provider, and facility charge (the facility should be accredited by a national
accrediting organization like the American Association for Accreditation of
Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF)). It is important to compare “apples to
apples”. You should find the most qualified individual to perform a surgical
procedure, not the least expensive. Your health and safety depend on it.



If your selection of a surgeon is determined primarily by
high or low fees, ultimately, you may be disappointed with your choice. Shopping for bargains should be saved
for sandals and t-shirts not procedures that require scientific knowledge,
training, judgment, artistry and expertise.

Robert Singer, MD FACS

La Jolla, California

Hi Sharon: Thanks for your question.  Creating a straight profile will look natural and aesthetically pleasing.  Rarely, a patient wants to keep a slight bump to preserve their ethnicity, and in these cases, you should be very clear with your surgeon that you want to keep a slight bump.  Best of luck!

Yes, it is possible to only shave down a small amount of the dorsal hump. The dorsal hump is composed of both bone and cartilage and has been filed down in order to reduce it. Osteotomies of the nasal bones will be required after the hump removal.  For many examples of dorsal hump removal, please see the link below