A bulbous nose is a nasal shape where the tip appears round, wide, or prominent due to the way the cartilage and skin form at the lower part of the nose. Some people have this shape naturally due to genetics, while for others, it can develop or become more noticeable over time.
Rhinoplasty can be used to change the structure of the nasal tip by modifying the cartilage underneath, creating a different shape.
In this blog, we’ll explain how a rhinoplasty can address a bulbous nose and what the procedure process can involve.
What causes a bulbous nose?
The way the nasal tip forms is mainly influenced by the lower lateral cartilages, which provide support and shape.
In cases where the cartilage is broad, thick, or lacks structure, it can create a rounded appearance. The thickness of the nasal skin can also influence the appearance, as thicker skin can sometimes obscure the underlying cartilage structure, making the tip look more prominent.
A bulbous nose can develop due to a condition called rhinophyma, which leads to thickening of the nasal skin. However, this is different from a naturally bulbous tip and requires a different treatment approach.
How can a rhinoplasty adjust a bulbous nose?
When performing rhinoplasty for a bulbous nose, the aim is to adjust the shape of the tip by working with the existing cartilage. Since the cartilage at the lower part of the nose can have a noticeable influence on the overall structure, modifying it can create a narrower appearance.
One approach is cartilage reshaping, where sutures are used to bring the cartilage closer together, changing how it sits at the tip of the nose. If the cartilage is too wide or thick, small portions may be removed to adjust the shape. If the cartilage lacks support, grafts may be used to reinforce the structure, helping to reshape the tip while maintaining stability.
For those with thicker nasal skin, reshaping the cartilage underneath will still make a difference, but the skin itself can typically take longer to heal over the new framework. While the thickness of the skin cannot be significantly altered during surgery, over time, it can adjust to the changes made to the structure beneath.
What can you expect during the procedure?
A rhinoplasty is typically performed as a day surgery, taking about two-to-three hours to perform. Normally, this means that you will be able to return home on the same day as your procedure, although you will typically need to be monitored for some time in the recovery room.
Dr Laniewski will make an incision in the nostril cavity or a suitable location on the nose, allowing him to access the tissue that is contributing to the appearance of the bulbous nose. According to your needs and aesthetic preferences, he will then make adjustments to the tissue, and sometimes the underlying cartilage.
Once all of the necessary steps have been performed, the remaining tissue will be moved into place and the incision will be carefully sutured closed. A splint is typically put in place to help support the nose as it heals after the procedure.
What can you expect during the recovery period?
Your recovery from a rhinoplasty to address a bulbous nose will depend on the specific techniques that will be used. In general, the initial healing process takes a few weeks, while the final refinement of the nose takes longer as swelling needs to fully subside.
In the first week after surgery, swelling and bruising are expected, particularly around the nose and under the eyes. The splint that will be placed over the nose will be there to provide support and protect the area as it heals. The splint is typically removed after about a week, however it’s expected that the nose will still be swollen at this stage.
Most of the visible swelling should subside within a few weeks, but for the nasal tip, it can take longer for swelling to fully resolve. This is particularly true for those with thicker skin, as the skin takes time to heal over the new shape. Some patients may notice that subtle swelling in the tip can take up to a year to fully subside.
During the recovery period, it’s important to avoid putting any pressure on the nose, including wearing glasses that rest on the bridge of the nose or sleeping in positions that might put strain on the area. Strenuous activities should also be avoided in the early stages of healing.
Dr Laniewski can discuss recovery instructions during your surgery consultation to help you navigate your recovery.
How long will the changes last?
Once your nose has fully healed, the results of your rhinoplasty procedure will be long-lasting, as the structural changes made during surgery are designed to remain stable over time.
In particular, if adjustments are made to the cartilage, the shape of the nose won’t revert back to its previous form. However, the skin and soft tissue of the nose will still change with age, just as they would naturally.
Meet with Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Laniewski to discuss a rhinoplasty procedure plan
If you’re thinking of undergoing a rhinoplasty procedure to address a bulbous nose, it will be helpful to consult with a surgeon who has experience performing nasal tip surgery.
In Sydney, Dr Peter Laniewski is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon who takes pride in using the latest technologies and techniques in cosmetic procedures. After graduating from university, he completed advanced surgical training and gained Fellowships in General Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
His fellowships include an international fellowship at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London, a well-respected hospital for breast, head and neck reconstruction procedures. Dr Laniewski has also trained with plastic surgeons from the well-renowned Harley Street in London, which provided him with even more refined skills in face and breast procedures.
You are welcome to contact our Sydney team to book your rhinoplasty consultation and discuss the finer details of the procedure.
