When you look in the mirror, are you completely happy with what you see? Many people aren’t, and that’s perfectly normal. While some of us learn to live with our perceived imperfections, others seek out procedures to transform themselves.
One particular area of interest is the nose. If it’s too big, then it can take the spotlight away from your other fantastic features.
Want to reshape your nose for better balance? Then consider bulbous nose rhinoplasty. Keep reading to see what this procedure is and the essential information you should know.
What Is a Bulbous Nose?
Let’s first go over what a bulbous nose is so you can determine whether or not this surgery applies to you.
A bulbous nose is characterized by a nasal tip that’s round, wide, or overly prominent. There are different causes for this, such as:
- Thick skin
- Excessive cartilage
- Weak cartilage structure
- Trauma or injury
- Medical conditions (such as rosacea)
Bulbous noses are also more common in various ethnicities, and you may inherit it through your genetic line. In addition, it may become more pronounced as you get older, as your skin loses elasticity and gravity has an effect.
In most cases, a bulbous nose only has an effect on aesthetics. However, some people may experience functional issues, such as trouble breathing.
What Is Bulbous Nose Rhinoplasty?
Bulbous nose rhinoplasty is also known as tip refinement surgery. It’s a specialized form of nose reshaping, and it specifically focuses on refining the nasal tip for a more defined and proportionate look.
As with regular rhinoplasty, bulbous tip rhinoplasty can use either the open or closed method, depending on the extent of the correction needed.
Techniques Used in Bulbous Nose Rhinoplasty
In addition to either open or closed rhinoplasty, there are several techniques that surgeons can use to fix a bulbous nose. Let’s explore them in detail below.
Cartilage Reshaping
In many cases, patients have a bulbous nasal tip due to excessive or poorly defined lower lateral cartilages (alar cartilages). A surgeon can correct this by trimming and sculpting these cartilages, as this will reduce their size and refine their shape.
The goal here is to create a sharper and more refined nasal tip while still maintaining structural integrity. Cartilage reshaping is best for people with large or excessive lower lateral cartilage that results in a larger tip width.
Cartilage Suturing
Cartilage suturing is great for refining the nasal tip without aggressive cartilage removal. There are three different types of suturing techniques surgeons can use.
The first is dome-binding sutures, or interdomal sutures. This brings the two lower lateral cartilage domes closer together and narrows the tip.
The second is intradomal structural. These are placed within each dome to create more tip definition.
The last is transdomal sutures. These sutures help to refine and narrow a wide tip by pulling the cartilage inwards.
All three can give you a natural, long-lasting solution without over-reducing cartilage, which can weaken nasal support. Suturing is best for patients who have moderate bulbous tips and sufficient cartilage strength.
Cartilage Grafting
If you want tip definition but have weak nasal cartilage and need structural support, then cartilage grafting can be an excellent solution. Like with suturing, there are various types of grafting surgeons use.
Shield grafts are placed at the tip to provide more projection and definition, while cap grafts are used to smooth and refine the shape of the nasal tip. And lateral crural strut grafts help reposition and support the lower lateral cartilages for a more structured appearance.
Skin and Soft Tissue Reduction
Skin and soft tissue reduction is used for patients with thick nasal skin, especially if cartilage work alone may not be enough for refinement.
The surgeon will carefully thin the subcutaneous tissue to defatten the nasal tip. Patients may also go through dermabrasion or steroid injections after surgery to manage excessive scar tissue.
Good Candidates for Bulbous Nose Rhinoplasty
Not everyone will be a good candidate for rhinoplasty for a bulbous nose. Obviously, you should have a round, wide, or undefined nasal tip for this procedure, and have a goal of getting a more balanced and refined nasal shape.
Plus, you must be in good overall health and don’t smoke. You’re going through surgery, after all, so your body needs to be able to get through it and heal with relatively little issue.
You must also have realistic expectations. Some patients go through rhinoplasty revision surgery if they’re not completely satisfied with the results, and they may be justified in doing so. However, having a realistic outlook can reduce the chances of revision surgery, which comes with its own risks.
The Recovery Process
You can expect the same recovery process for a bulbous nose job as with a regular one. Here’s the general timeline.
You’ll have noticeable swelling and bruising during the first week, and you’ll usually have a nasal splint. Most of the bruising will subside in a few weeks, and you’ll see the initial results.
The swelling will continue decreasing and the nasal tip will refine further in the next months. Do note that it may take longer if you have thick skin.
Ultimately, you’ll see the final results around the one-year point. Scar tissue formation can affect it though, so some patients may need revision rhinoplasty for further refinement. But in most cases, you should get a fantastic outcome.
Will You Get Bulbous Nose Rhinoplasty?
Those who don’t like a larger nose shape may be good candidates for bulbous nose rhinoplasty. This surgery can change your appearance significantly, which can have a positive effect on your self-esteem and confidence.
Just make sure that you research your options for surgeons and pick someone who has extensive experience. This ensures that you’ll get the results you want and lessens the chance of the need for revision rhinoplasty.
Get in touch with us now if you’d like to get a nose job for your bulbous nose. Dr. Valdez is a specialist in ultrasonic rhinoplasty, which results in less bruising, almost no pain, and faster recovery.
References:
- Tüzün Y, Wolf R, Kutlubay Z, Karakuş Ö, Engin B. Rosacea and rhinophyma. Clinics in Dermatology. 2014;32(1):35-46. doi:10.1016/j.clindermatol.2013.05.024
- MD DGB MD, Andrew R Simonsen, DO, Marcelo Antunes. A review of current surgical techniques. Rhinoplasty Archive. February 27, 2011. Accessed February 2, 2025. https://www.rhinoplastyarchive.com/articles/nasal-tip-aesthetics/bulbous-nasal-tip-review-current-surgical-techniques
- McPhillips A. What to Know About Rhinophyma. WebMD. Accessed February 2, 2025. https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/what-to-know-about-rhinophyma