Ethnic Rhinoplasty

Ethnic rhinoplasty requires a significantly different approach than rhinoplasty performed on individuals of Caucasian descent. 

Most ethnic patients today who are seeking rhinoplasty do not want the same nose that would be given to a Caucasian patient and instead are looking to improve their nasal appearance and/or function while still retaining their ethnic identity.

While the nature of the ethnic rhinoplasty will vary according to each individual, there are some characteristics common among many individuals of African American, Asian, Hispanic and Middle Eastern ethnicity. Patients may have a broader, flatter nasal structure, as well as thicker nasal skin. The tip may be broad or lacking in definition and may require narrowing or refinement. A flat bridge may require augmentation while in other cases there may be a hump or bump on the bridge that the patient wants removed. Grafts may be necessary for additional support and these can be made of cartilage taken from the patient's septum, ear or rib.

Dr. Batniji is a board certified facial plastic surgeon located in Newport Beach, California, who has extensive experience in creating beautiful, natural ethnic noses. He is affiliated with several accredited outpatient surgery centers and hospitals throughout Southern California including Newport Beach Surgery Center and Hoag Memorial Presbyterian Hospital. He performs ethnic rhinoplasty with either local anesthesia and sedation or with general anesthesia. The incisions may be

located entirely on the inside of the nose (closed rhinoplasty) or an additional small incision may be made on the underside of the nose on the skin between the nostrils (open rhinoplasty).

Following ethnic rhinoplasty, patients can expect some swelling, bruising and discomfort. Pain medication can help to alleviate discomfort, and the majority of swelling will fade within about two weeks. After one week, the dressings and splints will be removed and patients will be able to resume work and other non-strenuous activities.