Does the removal of a dorsal hump from rhinoplasty heal by callus formation like a broken bone?

Question

Is that what causes a bump on the bridge after dorsal hump is removed? If calluses form, how often do they go away on Their own?

Oakley Smith, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Hi, It is better for you to consult with a facial plastic surgeon who can examine you and give you opinion based on your needs and expectations. Usually they won't go away on their own.

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

This is an excellent question, and like so many questions about what happens after surgery, gaps in our knowledge prevent a perfect answer.  In general, removal of the "dorsal hump" of bone, cartilage, periosteum, perichondrium, and perhaps nasal mucosa and other soft tissue leave a variably sized defect on top of the nose.  My protocol is to develop extramucosal tunnels so the defect excludes mucosa and doesn't communicate with intranasal (endodermal) microenvironment.  Surgical and aesthetic convention is to close and reconstruct the osseocartilaginous defect by coapting and aligning  marginal structures with osteotomies, sutures, and/or grafts.  We use the Piezo for osteotomies under direct vision and generally spreader flaps.  If the skin is thin and dorsal contour problems are a risk, we add slivers of cartilage and/or demineralized bone matrix.  Healing is by fibrous and/or osseous union.  Although the nasal dorsum becomes structurally sound over time, it may or may not approach the original nasal resistance to impact.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Even good technique is used, the dorsum should heal with a smooth surface without a visible callus. 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

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

After we remove a bump from somebody's bridge, osteotomies are typically performed to narrow the nose. In our experience over 25 years, dorsal humps do not grow back although the nasal bones heal in the position that we leave them within 2 weeks after surgery. Thank you for your question. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Healing around bone cuts (osteotomies) after rhinoplasty does include formation of callus. However, well executed osteotomies will rarely leave large, visible callus which requires revision.

Does the removal of a dorsal hump from rhinoplasty heal by callus formation like a broken bone?

Answers (8)

Answer: Dorsal humps do not grow back after rhinoplasty surgery.

Answer: Dorsal humps do not grow back after rhinoplasty surgery.

Answer: Bone healing after rhinoplasty

Answer: Bone healing after 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.

Does the removal of a dorsal hump from rhinoplasty heal by callus formation like a broken bone?

Answers (8)

Answer: Dorsal humps do not grow back after rhinoplasty surgery.

Answer: Dorsal humps do not grow back after rhinoplasty surgery.

Answer: Bone healing after rhinoplasty

Answer: Bone healing after 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.