Rhinoplasty (nose job) is a surgical procedure that is designed to alter the size and shape of a person’s nose. This is accomplished by making adjustments to the bone, cartilage, and other nasal tissues. Making gentle, calculated changes to the nose structure can help patients achieve a nose that is more in line with their self-image.
While Rhinoplasty has a strong track record of success in achieving the ideal nose shape, patients still wonder if it can improve an overly long nose. Dr. Shapiro and his team of industry experts have aided countless patients in shortening their noses, giving them more confidence in their faces.
Defining a long nose
Long noses are usually defined as extending a bit further down at the tip of the nose or projecting outward due to the tip of the nose. While longer noses are not inherently bad or unattractive, some patients may feel self-conscious about them due to their pronounced length. These feelings can be especially impactful for patients who work in a field that requires them to interact face-to-face with other people often.
Another hallmark of longer noses is that they tend to be most apparent from a profile view. From this angle, a nose that extends downward or projects outward will be most pronounced. Patients who are looking to change their aesthetic and feel more confident about their noses can achieve their goals with rhinoplasty.
How Rhinoplasty can shorten a long nose
When it comes to patients who have long noses, the primary focus is on the tip of the nose and shortening the cartilage. This leads to an enhancement in overall appearance.
The ideal approach to this is usually to alter the cartilage subtly so that the tip of the nose is angled more upward rather than sloping downward. Making these alterations to the bridge and tip of the nose is ideal for some patients as well, as it can improve the overall shape of the nose.
Methods for performing the surgical procedure
Regardless of the approach, Rhinoplasty is carried out through one of two methods:
Closed Rhinoplasty
This iteration of rhinoplasty involves making the incisions inside the nostrils. This technique ensures that all scarring is invisible, but it may impact the surgeon’s ability to adjust bone and cartilage.
Open Rhinoplasty
With this technique, the surgeon makes an incision along the columella, the skin between the nostrils. While there is usually a scar, it is in a location that makes it difficult to notice. Furthermore, it gives the surgeon more control while making adjustments.
Potential risks
When attempting to shorten an overly long nose, surgeons need to pay special attention so that the changes are not too drastic. In an ideal scenario, only a small amount of tissue will be removed from the tip, ensuring that the changes are within reason and not overly noticeable. Going overboard with nasal tip adjustments can leave the nose looking unnatural and unattractive.
While this potential risk exists, patients will be pleased to know that digital imaging software and modern X-ray technology now allow surgeons to carefully plan a rhinoplasty procedure and avoid these types of problems.
The results of nose shortening
Most patients who undergo nose-shortening procedures are pleased with their results. Patients walk away with a nose shape that is less pronounced and more in line with their aesthetic ideals.
What is the takeaway?
Rhinoplasty can absolutely help patients achieve a shorter nose. Those who are struggling with a nasal tip that is overly pronounced can make it shorter with this safe and effective procedure. That said, patients should always choose a reputable and board-certified practitioner to carry out their treatment.
At Shapiro Plastic Surgery, Dr. Shapiro and his expert team create customized treatment plans to help patients get to where they want to be. Reach out to our office today to schedule a private consultation and learn more about how this procedure can help you reach your goals.
