An ethnic rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that changes the shape of the nose in individuals of ethnic descent, and it is a popular procedure among African Americans. Although a rhinoplasty changes the shape of the nose, an ethnic rhinoplasty is drastically different than a conventional rhinoplasty. A traditional rhinoplasty typically removes some of the nasal bone and cartilage from the nose with individuals of Caucasian descent, but an ethnic rhinoplasty typically adds cartilage to the nose to correct a flat nose, fix nostrils that flare, or correct other characteristics that are seen in those of ethnic descent.
Many African Americans want to achieve some of the following results from the procedure:
● Reduce the length or width of the nose;
● Get an overall balance between the nose, chin, and forehead;
● Add more definition to a nose that is too small;
● Minimize the width of nostrils that flare;
● Add elevation to a nose that is flat.
Can an Ethnic Rhinoplasty be Administered With Other Procedures?
There are many African Americans who choose to have an ethnic rhinoplasty administered in conjunction with other procedures, which may include a chin implant or cheek implants. As a result, these individuals achieve facial features that are well-balanced.
Who are Ideal Candidates for an Ethnic Rhinoplasty?
The nose is a facial feature that can greatly influence the profile and proportions of the face. Individuals who want an ethnic rhinoplasty should have a nose that is fully mature, which typically occurs at the age of 15 or 16. Individuals who want an ethnic rhinoplasty should be in overall good health and have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure.
What is the Procedure Like for an Ethnic Rhinoplasty?
Many individuals of African American descent, who want an ethnic rhinoplasty, may need to have grafts and implant materials used to add more definition to the nose. There may be other techniques that are involved when the goal of the procedure is to reduce the width of the nose or flaring nostrils.
Before the procedure is carried out, you and your plastic surgeon will discuss the goals that you want to achieve from the procedure, which will give the surgeon an understanding of your desired results and what techniques should be used. Your plastic surgeon will also examine your skin type, skin thickness, and your skin tone. In addition, you may be asked to look at before and after photos of patients with a similar nose to help you and your plastic surgeon come to an agreement on the exact look that you wish to achieve.
If you are planning to have an ethnic rhinoplasty, you should inform your plastic surgeon of any medications that you are taking. It is also important that you refrain from taking anti-inflammatory medications, such as Motrin or Advil, for at least two weeks before the surgery. This is because anti-inflammatory medications can cause increased bleeding. If you have oily skin, your plastic surgeon may recommend that you have microdermabrasion before the procedure to clear any blocked pores on the nose, but those who have this done will need to wait until the skin heals before they have the rhinoplasty carried out.
In most circumstances, the procedure will take about two to three hours, which depends on how much work needs to be done to reach the desired result. However, if the procedure is administered in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures, it may take longer.
Before the procedure, you will be given local anesthesia or sedation. However, if extensive work needs to be done, you may be given general anesthesia. During a typical ethnic rhinoplasty, an outer incision will be made to allow the plastic surgeon to open the nose for extensive reshaping, which may include reducing a bulbous tip or flaring nostrils and raising a nose that is too flat. When an individual of African American decent wants to add height to the nasal bridge, the plastic surgeon will probably add cartilage to the nose to achieve the desired look. In most cases, donor cartilage will be taken from the ear or the nasal septum.
How to Recover From an Ethnic Rhinoplasty
An ethnic rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure, which is why it is important to follow all of the post-operative instructions from your plastic surgeon. After the procedure, a splint will be applied to the nose to ensure that it holds its new shape. You may also have nasal packing inserted to minimize bleeding and swelling. Although there may be slight swelling and bruising after the procedure, these symptoms will typically subside within two to four weeks. You may be given a prescription for painkillers to relieve some of the pain that is common after the procedure. It is important to refrain from blowing your nose for the first week following the surgery, and you should also keep your head elevated for the first day after the procedure to help reduce swelling.
If the healing process goes as planned, most patients can resume physical activities about two weeks after the surgery. After about four weeks, the final shape of the nose will begin to surface. However, it may take slightly longer for African Americans with darker skin tones to notice the final results.
If you are thinking about having an ethnic rhinoplasty, it is imperative to contact a skilled plastic surgeon who has experience administering the procedure, such as Dr. Andrew Jacono, MD, FACS at the New York Center for Facial Plastic and Laser Surgery. Dr. Jacono has a dual board certification in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Head and Neck Surgery and was chosen as one of the Top Ten Plastic Surgeons in New York. He has offices on Long Island and in New York City, and he serves patients from all over the world. Visit Dr. Jacono's website today at https://www.newyorkfacialplasticsurgery.com to schedule a consultation.
