Noses are the most prominent aesthetic feature that people notice while interacting. Many people wish they had a perfectly shaped nose. Unfortunately, due to genetics or an injury during birth or at a later stage in life, a hump can form on the bridge of the nose.

The bridge, or nasal dorsum, is made of bone and cartilage. A nasal hump is the result of having excess bone and cartilage in the upper part of the bridge. The hump may be visible when the person turns their face sideways but not be as noticeable when looking directly at them.

If you have a nasal hump that you’re unhappy with, it can be removed using a plastic-surgery procedure known as rhinoplasty.

Why Remove a Hump?

A prominent nasal hump affects the proportions of the facial features. Many people feel that having a nasal hump makes them appear less attractive, which in turn may lead to poor self-confidence.

Having a nasal hump can cause anxiety and embarrassment when meeting new people. In some cases, it may even affect breathing. Removing a hump has been known to drastically improve a person’s facial symmetry.

Correcting a Nasal Hump

Nasal-hump rhinoplasty involves reshaping the dorsal bridge to control the overall size of the nose. The excess bone and cartilage of the hump can be reduced to make the nose appear more aesthetically pleasing.

In the case of a minor hump, Dr. Wallace can use a minimally invasive approach. This involves going through the nostrils and shaving off some the bone and cartilage to remove the hump. In such cases, the nose retains its natural shape and the recovery time is drastically reduced.

When there needs to be extensive work done and a section of bone must be removed in order to remove the hump, open rhinoplasty is used. This involves lifting the skin of the dorsal bridge, reconstructing the bridge, and then draping the skin back over the area.

During open rhinoplasty, a part of the bone may be shaved off or removed and a spreader graft may be placed on the mid vault so that normal breathing is not compromised.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

Before getting their nasal hump corrected with rhinoplasty surgery, patients will come in for a consultation. During this, they will learn about the projected recovery time and proper post-operative care regimen from Dr. Wallace.

It’s vital that you follow Dr. Wallace’s instructions regarding post-operative care to the letter, as this will affect the quality of the results. It will also help you avoid complications and experience a shorter recovery process.

Swelling and bruising occur after the surgery. These usually subside in a few days and the nose begins to look more normal. After full swelling ameliorates, you’ll see your complete results.

Your Consultation

In your rhinoplasty consultation, you will meet with Dr. Charles Wallace, a skilled board-certified plastic surgeon with numerous satisfied patients. Dr. Wallace will perform an examination of your nasal hump, discuss your aesthetic goals with you, and then create a surgical plan to achieve those goals. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.