Ethnic Rhinoplasty

Question:
How does the Hispanic nose differ from other noses?

Answer:
While it is convenient to generalize about characteristics of the noses of various ethnic groups, it is important not to place too much emphasis or focus on this. While there are stereotypes about the typical "Italian" nose, the typical "Jewish nose," the typical Hispanic nose, and so forth, in my practice I have seen many Hispanics with a so-called "Caucasian nose," and vice versa. I have seen enough exceptions to the rule that I no longer spend so much energy focused on the rule! As seen by the accompanying photos, certain Hispanic ethnic sub-groups have thinner skin, more refined and defined nasal tips, and even nasal humps!

The most commonly encountered Hispanic nose is also characterized by thick skin with abundant fibrofatty tissue, and a broad, bulbous, thick-skinned, nasal tip. However, it is more common to encounter Hispanic patients with a nasal hump.
While it is convenient to generalize about characteristics of the noses of various ethnic groups, it is important not to place too much emphasis or focus on this.  While there are.

While these generalizations can be a useful way of categorizing and communicating, ultimately what is most important is the patient's specific anatomy - your specific anatomy. If the specific patient in my office fits the "general rule," then that is fine. But, more than likely (as we are all unique) the patient's nose will deviate from the general rule in some way.

So, I prefer to talk about the thick-skinned nose, the wide nose, the flat nose. The treatment of these problems is the same regardless of race, religion or creed!