Explain ethnic rhinoplasty for African Americans
Ethnic Rhinoplasty is the term used to talk in general terms about rhinoplasty surgeries among a particular ethnic population. Of course, every individual and every surgery is unique and must be treated as such. This is particularly true in the case of African Americans who demonstrate a particularly high degree of variability in their nasal shapes and structures. However, it is possible to pull some common threads that apply to most African American rhinoplasties.
There are some commonalities in the aspects of the nose that African Americans typically seek to alter. The shape of the nostrils is one of the most common. People of African descent tend to have relatively large, wide nostrils, and often want to reduce the width of the base of the nose. The tip of the nose is often short, undefined, and sometimes appears dropped, so often African American rhinoplasty includes creating more definition in this area. In terms of the bridge of the nose, it is generally somewhat flat and wide. Again, greater definition is often desired as with the tip of the nose.
There are also some differences in the structure of the African American nose as compared with European descendant noses. The skin is thicker and does not have as much elasticity, particularly at the tip of the nose, which can provide challenges in reshaping that area. In terms of internal structure, the nasal bones are shorter and the cartilage softer and slightly less structured. Because of this, grafts are often needed to help support the new nose, a technique known as augmentation rhinoplasty.
In order to maximize your satisfaction, it is important that you find a qualified physician who is familiar with the anatomy and physiology of African American noses. This experience and knowledge is necessary to get the best result physically and without erasing the patient’s ethnic heritage.
Ask Dr. Becker a question or arrange an appointment for a nose surgery consultation by calling 856-589-NOSE (6673) or emailing us here.