Is it possible to just shave down the bone in rhinoplasty instead of breaking my nose? Would that make it less painful?

Hello alessandra12,Thanks for your question.If you have a mild hump than you can rasp it down gently and probably avoid having the nasal bones broken.If the hump is larger, you typically get a gap in your nasal bones known as an "open roof" when you rasp down the extra bone.  The "open roof" leaves a divot in your nasal bone when left open.  Closing this requires that the nasal bones be broken surgically and then pressed together to close the "open roof."  Pain for most patients is mild to moderate and is typically described as a pressure.  Narcotics are used typically only for a few days after surgery.  The only real postoperative issue that arises from breaking the nose is the raccoon eye bruising that you see.  Just shaving down the hump rarely causes bruising.I hope this made sense?Thanks,Dr. Shah

In theory, yes, this is possible. However, in most cases when the bridge needs to be reduced an "open roof" is created. The open roof needs to be closed with osteotomies. In terms of pain following rhinoplasty it is typically mild to moderate in nature and osteotomies contribute to only a small amount of additional pain. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

There are many surgical components that may be involved when a rhinoplasty is performed. However, not every nose needs all of these components to achieve the desired outcome. The treatment of the nasal bones and the bridge of the nose must be individualized to each patient's anatomy and goals. The best approach is to be evaluated by a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery to determine which approach would work best in your situation.