Asian Rhinoplasty

Question: What is Asian rhinoplasty and how is it different from standard rhinoplasty?

Answer: Asian rhinoplasty is quite different than the average rhinoplasty procedure. The reasons for this are multiple but primarily involve the desired endpoint in terms of esthetic outcome and the unique underlying anatomy. With regard to the desired esthetic outcome, any experienced rhinoplasty surgeon is going to agree that you cannot reshape an Asian (or any ethnic nose) the same as you would in a Caucasian rhinoplasty. Although the bridge is typically augmented and the tip is made more defined in Asian and ethnic rhinoplasty, the end result has to remain in balance with the rest of the facial features. Since there are such distinct differences in Asian and ethnic faces, your rhinoplasty surgeon must respect these unique characteristics and avoid performing ‘westernization rhinoplasty’ in this population. Only rarely do I have Asian rhinoplasty patients who truly desire to move away from their ethnic look. With regard to the anatomy of an Asian nose, there are very clear anatomic variances that warrant a different technical approach to the nose. For instance, the combination of thicker skin and weaker underlying cartilage in the Asian rhinoplasty patient means that your rhinoplasty surgeon has to alter their surgical technique to compensate for these variables. For these reasons and more, you need to make sure that your chosen rhinoplasty surgeon is experienced and versed in performing Asian rhinoplasty on a regular basis. Sincerely, Dr. Hilinski.