Low radix and dorsal hump - will need a radix graft instead so it will look more balanced? (photos)

Question

I have a very low radix and a dorsal hump on my nose. I had one doctor photo shop an image of my nose where he took the bump off and my nose looked like a ski jump, and the bridge was way too low. I am thinking i will need a radix graft instead so it will look more balanced. I’m wondering if a radix graft can’t be done, what else can? Either than removing so much of my bump.

Yash Avashia, MD · Answer

The normal anatomic position of the radix should be somewhere between your upper eyelid lash line and upper eyelid crease. The radix is the lowest point above the bridge of your nose on lateral view. Some ethnicities are known for classically low radix: hispanic noses, middle eastern noses, african americans. If you have a straight dorsum (no hump) a radix graft may be useful to help augment the nose and provide a little more character to your profile. In my opinion, when patients have a dorsal hump is more effective to remove the hump to provide a straight dorsum and not use a radix graft. A ski-slope result occurs if the dorsum is over-reduced. The art in rhinoplasty is knowing how much to remove and how much to leave back. Looking at your pictures, a small hump reduction would result in a straight dorsum. Your radix isn't quite that low so you should not need a radix graft.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Based on these photos, you seem to be excellent rhinoplasty candidate. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon, expert in rhinoplasty, would give you opportunity to discuss plan of surgery and possible result. Most surgeons performing rhinoplasty will have available 3D simulation tool available in the office, which may give you an opportunity to participate in planning of your surgery and see anticipated result. Good luck.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

All the photos look different. The clearest is the first, and it appears your radix is not low. Either go on some in person consultations or get someone to replicate clinical photos, preferably using a dedicated camera and standing at least 8 to 10 feet away.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cassdowney,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Based on your photos, it looks like you would benefit from rhinoplasty. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

If you get multiple opinions you  find some who would recommend a radix graft. There's nothing wrong with that but I don't think you need it at all. You can have a rhinoplasty that looks great and isn't too small without a graft

Barry M. Weintraub, MD, FACS · Answer

In my practice as a board certified plastic surgeon, I aim to customize all of my surgeries to properly harmonize with my patients’ facial aesthetics. In your case, if you would prefer – as most patients do --  to have a straight bridge without any concavity (“ski slope”), I certainly can help you achieve this by filing the bump (I prefer not to overzealously break bones), so that the bony elements of your nose are in line with the cartilaginous elements. Just based on your photos, is doesn’t appear you are in need of a radix graft, but a physical exam and further review of your goals would be needed. I recommend that you consult in person with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations.  Bring pictures with you to help communicate the aesthetic you desire, which will help ensure that you and your surgeon are on the same page.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The side profile photographs show only a dorsal hump, not a low radix.  A conservative hump removal with a closed rhinoplasty approach can accomplish improvement in your nose. Digital computer imaging of your nose upon your facial features would also be helpful to understand can and cannot be accomplished with the procedure

Low radix and dorsal hump - will need a radix graft instead so it will look more balanced? (photos)

Answers (7)

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