Facial beauty is all about symmetry and balance of the facial features. The key to this facial balance is the nose. Features like mid-bridge bumps, bulbous nasal tips, and flared nostrils can cause the nose to look too wide in relation to the rest of the face. 

While a myriad of factors can lead to a broad nose, rhinoplasty remains the best permanent solution for bringing the nose into harmony with the rest of the face. However, there are a few things that set this specific type of nose job apart from traditional rhinoplasty. If you’re thinking about surgically improving a too-wide nose, consider the following:

There are Specific Techniques for Wide Noses 

Depending on your desired end goal, that can mean combining multiple techniques. Some of the most common methods used for wide nose rhinoplasty are osteotomy, tip plasty, and alar reduction.

Osteotomy

Excess cartilage and bone at the top of the nose can create the appearance of a wide nose. During an osteotomy, upper nasal bones are broken into smaller pieces and rearranged in order to narrow the nasal bridge. Excess bone may be removed from the mid-section or the outer sections of the nasal bone, allowing the surgeon to recreate the nasal bridge. Depending on how much restructuring must be done, an osteotomy may be completed as either an open or a closed procedure. 

Tip Plasty

In some instances, enlarged or asymmetrical nasal tip size causes the nose to look disproportionately wide. For these patients, the tip plasty technique or “bulbous nose job” is usually recommended. This procedure typically involves reducing the size of the nostrils or removing/reshaping cartilage at the tip of the nose into a more balanced shape. As this procedure does not alter the nasal bone, it is less invasive than traditional rhinoplasty.

Alar Reduction

Flared or wide nostrils can also contribute to the appearance of a wide nose. The alar reduction technique allows patients to remove excess tissue from this part of the nose, resulting in the appearance of a smaller nose.

As with many other forms of plastic surgery, multiple techniques may be necessary to achieve the desired end result. During the consultation, your surgeon will discuss available treatment options that he feels will best restore symmetry to your overall appearance.

Surgical Technique Influences the Recovery Process

Initial recovery from more invasive procedures such as osteotomy rhinoplasty can take up to two weeks, followed by another three to six months of nose sensitivity. In contrast, recovery after minimally invasive tip plasty and alar reduction is much shorter.

Choose a Surgeon with Experience

Rhinoplasties are among the most complex plastic surgeries that you can receive. Choosing a highly experienced facial plastic surgeon who has completed many wide nose rhinoplasties can ensure you achieve your desired end goals. 

When considering a surgeon, be sure to ask about their approach to this type of rhinoplasty. Asking to see before and after photos of past patients can also provide key insight into whether the surgeon has treated cases similar to yours. 

Start Your Rhinoplasty Journey with Dr. Guy

Since we first opened our doors, the Dr. Guy Facial Plastic Surgery team has been committed to helping patients put their best foot forward. Our double-board certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. W. Marshall Guy, brings years of experience and a practiced eye for artistry to every rhinoplasty consultation, ensuring every treatment strategy is tailored to each individual’s needs. Call 832-956-1040 to schedule your consultation in The Woodlands today.