My philosophy of rhinoplasty is based on one important principle – to make the patient happy. My approach to African-American rhinoplasty is the same as my approach to all rhinoplasties – to listen carefully to the patient’s concerns, to listen to what the patient does not like about their nose. Then, I add my expertise and advise, and we work together to arrive at a sound surgical plan.
For many years, the “ideal nose” in rhinoplasties performed in the United States and Europe was based on the Greco-Roman, Caucasian model. Of course, in Africa and elsewhere there has long been an understanding of important differences between the traditional “European” aesthetic ideals and the ideals for the beautiful African face. It is important that the goal of any rhinoplasty be a nose that is harmonious with the face it belongs to.