Ethnic Rhinoplasty

Ethnic rhinoplasty (a nose job) is performed to improve the things you dislike about your nose, while preserving the characteristics that make it unique to your heritage.

About ethnic rhinoplasty

The goal of ethnic rhinoplasty is to achieve a more attractive, balanced nose that doesn’t look overly Westernized. This surgery is for patients who want to improve their appearance and facial harmony without losing the elements that are hallmarks of their background. Detailed attention and extra care must be taken by a surgeon when approaching ethnic rhinoplasty in order to preserve the patient’s cultural identity while also bringing balance and beauty.

A procedure tailored to your needs

The world is filled with a wide variety of beautiful faces from different countries — each with different noses. Details such as bone density, the length of the nasal bridge, how much cartilage there is, skin thickness, and nostril size vary between ethnicities, and these elements must all be considered when performing this very customizable procedure. At Alabama Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Blake Raggio and Dr. Thomas Cawthon perform ethnic rhinoplasty with skilled hands, an artist’s eye, a surgeon’s subtly, and a high level of training and experience to achieve a natural-looking nose that fits harmoniously with the face.

Asian rhinoplasty

Many Asian patients want a nasal bridge that is slightly higher and more defined, narrowed nostrils, and re-contouring of the nasal tip.

African-American rhinoplasty

Common reasons for African-American rhinoplasty include subtle definition of the nasal bridge and refining of the nasal tip and/or nostrils.

Middle Eastern rhinoplasty

Many Middle Eastern patients want to reduce or remove a hump on the bridge of the nose, re-shape the nasal tip, or decrease the size of the nose.

Latino rhinoplasty

Narrowing the nostrils, improving the bridge of the nose, and/or refining the nasal tip are common changes made in Latino rhinoplasty.

Ethnic rhinoplasty surgery details

An ethnic rhinoplasty can last anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, but the specific amount of time for a surgery will be determined case by case. The surgery is performed with the patient either under sedation or general anesthesia. (This will be discussed during your consultation.) Ethnic rhinoplasty is mostly done using the open technique, where a small incision is made in the columella, (the soft tissue that separates the nostrils). However, it may also be done using a closed technique, where the incisions are made completely within the nostrils. Sometimes the patient’s desired changes can even be made non-surgically.

Alabama Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Recovery

Those considering ethnic rhinoplasty should be aware that the initial recovery period is approximately 7 to 10 days, after which time most patients are able to return to work and/or school. At first, the nose may be dressed with tape, bandages, and possibly a splint. Although common side effects during recovery are swelling, discomfort, bruising, nausea, and/or nasal congestion, medications may help alleviate these issues.

Keeping your head elevated above your heart (even during sleep) for two weeks will help with swelling. Exercise can typically be resumed after two weeks following surgery, but your surgeon will let you know exactly when you are cleared to return to working out. Regarding results, your outcome will look better and better with each passing day as the swelling and bruising subsides. Most patients see final results in 6 to 18 months.

What to expect in your consultation

During your ethnic rhinoplasty consultation, Dr. Blake Raggio or Dr. Thomas Cawthon will get to know you and your aesthetic concerns and goals. A physical exam of your face and nose will be performed, and photos will be taken. The doctor will then guide you through the entire procedure and recovery process, explaining what type of technique and incisions will be used, what kind of anesthetic, and what recovery will entail for you. This is the best time for you to bring up any questions and concerns. It’s very important to us that you are fully educated on the surgery and what to expect. Once everything is agreed upon, your final treatment plan will be created, and costs can be discussed.

Why choose ALPRS for ethnic rhinoplasty?

If you’re looking for a highly skilled plastic surgeon who will deliver personalized care and expert skill, Alabama Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is the perfect place for you. Our team is professional and experienced, yet warm and friendly. As Montgomery’s authority on facial plastic surgery, Dr. Blake Raggio is the only fellowship-trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon in the region, and Dr. Thomas Cawthon is also an Otolaryngologist with decades of experience. Both doctors bring an exceptional level of training, education, and expertise to ALPRS. For extraordinary care and service from every touchpoint — before, during, and after surgery — we invite you to set up your consultation today.