What can be done to fix a boxy/bulbous tip in Rhinoplasty? (photos)

Question

I am extremely interested in getting a rhinoplasty on my nose, I only want the tip of it edited as I don't have a noticeable bump on my nose, I just want the tip fixed. I'm extremely squeamish with this type of thing, therefore I'm wondering how long recovery is for just a tip and give or take what can be done with a tip like mine? Thanks!

Steven M. Denenberg, MD · Answer

See the "Web reference" link, just below my answer: I made a computer morph, and an animation, out of your photo, showing changes that are possible with a rhinoplasty to narrow your nasal tip.Recovery is not lengthy. In my hands, you would wear a dressing on your nose for one week, and when the dressing comes off, the bruising is almost gone but not quite, and the swelling is down enough that you'd be happy going out in public.The operation should not hurt. Sure, any surgery is surgery, but this is not something you have to worry about excessively.You should understand, though, that the changes I demonstrated in the morph require advanced techniques, techniques that most plastic surgeons cannot handle.  Be sure to read the section in the "Web reference" link on how to stay out of trouble while searching for a rhinoplasty surgeon.

Brian M. Harmych, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photograph and questions.  From the limited assessment provided by your single frontal photograph, it appears that the nasal tip is slightly wide or boxy.  This is one of the most common reasons for patients to seek consultation for rhinoplasty. Keep in mind that changes of the nasal tip may also affect the symmetry and/or portions of your nose and face. Therefore, in order to maintain proper symmetry and facial proportions, changes to the nasal tip can sometimes necessitate changes to the nasal dorsum and nasal base as well. These decisions can only be determined after a thorough physical exam, however, Therefore,  consultation with a board–certified plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon would be informative.  With respect to your concerns about being squeamish, I find that most patients who undergo rhinoplasty surgery find the experienced to be less unpleasant than expected.  A thorough understanding of the anticipated postoperative recovery will make recovering a little easier. Therefore, in addition to selecting an appropriately credentialed and experienced surgeon, be sure to select a surgeon that takes his or her time to fully discuss the expectations for recovery with with. Good communication and rapport with your surgeon is imperative. Thanks again for sharing. Good luck!Dr. Harmych

William Portuese, MD · Answer

A full set of photographs are required of the nose,  because the nose is a three-dimensional structure. Most patients require a full rhinoplasty, not a tip rhinoplasty only to make sure that the new tip balances with the entire other components of the nose and the new nose balances with your facial features.  To reduce the bulbous and boxy tip requires suture techniques and a conservative cartilage removal applied to the lower lateral cartilages of the nasal tip. More information and many examples, please see the video  below

What can be done to fix a boxy/bulbous tip in Rhinoplasty? (photos)

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What can be done to fix a boxy/bulbous tip in Rhinoplasty? (photos)

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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.