There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to rhinoplasty. For optimal results, the surgical plan for your rhinoplasty should take into account numerous factors, including your ethnicity. An ethnic rhinoplasty allows you to improve the appearance of your nose and restore optimal facial harmony without wiping away the markers of your ethnicity.
What is ethnic rhinoplasty?
The term “ethnic rhinoplasty” refers to a rhinoplasty that is performed with special emphasis on the patient’s ethnic background. We know that what is considered the “ideal” nose varies among different ethnic groups, and many patients want to maintain key familial features. Patients often ask to have some changes made while ensuring that the end result still bears resemblance to other noses in their family. During an ethnic rhinoplasty, Dr. Hicks makes strategic incisions and modifies the underlying cartilage and bony structures in order to effect the desired changes to the outside of the nose while still conforming to the key markers of the patient’s ethnic identity.
Benefits of ethnic rhinoplasty:
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- Improve overall facial harmony and balance
- Refine the shape, size, and contours of the nose
- Retain the key elements of your ethnic identity
- Improve breathing and sense of smell
- Improve self-esteem and confidence
Improve the appearance of your nose without changing your ethnic identity
Individuals with different ethnic backgrounds have some key differences in nasal structure and appearance. Your ethnicity can affect the size, shape, and structure of your nose, as well as the thickness of your skin. Different skin tones also have different risks of scarring and discoloration. Surgeons who perform ethnic rhinoplasty procedures must maintain an awareness of the role of ethnicity in facial anatomy and surgical planning.
Dr. Hicks is an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon and has performed rhinoplasty procedures on patients of many different ethnic backgrounds. As such, she develops personalized surgical plans that help you achieve your ideal nose without erasing important markers of your cultural background.
Your ethnic rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Hicks
Dr. Hicks performs a highly personalized ethnic rhinoplasty surgery after a thorough consultation. She carefully examines your nose, reviews your medical history, and discusses your goals and expectations. She constructs a personalized surgical plan for your ethnic rhinoplasty that aims to correct asymmetries and other aesthetic concerns while preserving the key elements of your ethnic heritage. Dr. Hicks will also take clinical photos and use software to “morph” your nose in 3D, simulating surgical results. This process helps facilitate great communication, making sure you and Dr. Hicks agree on the desired outcome.
What can I expect after ethnic rhinoplasty?
Recovery following ethnic rhinoplasty is the same as recovery following any other type of rhinoplasty. At the end of the procedure, a nasal splint will be placed inside your nose, and a small cast will be placed outside your nose. Both are usually removed one week after surgery. You will experience some swelling, numbness, tenderness, bruising, and discomfort around your nose after surgery. Your nose may also feel congested and stuffed while the splints are in place – this will improve when the splints are removed. You may resume work and light exercise after a week, and you may slowly increase activity back to your normal level, starting about 10-14 days after surgery. In most cases, you should wait 4 weeks before wearing glasses and 6-8 weeks before participating in contact sports. Although the results will continue to improve over several months, most patients feel comfortable in social situations after a week or two. It can take several months for your nose to heal completely. You should carefully follow Dr. Hicks’ postoperative guidelines to prevent complications and ensure a smooth recovery.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hicks
Dr. Kate Hicks is a board-certified, double fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty. She completed two complex facial plastic surgery fellowships, providing the experience necessary to become an accomplished, consistent rhinoplasty surgeon. This foundation, coupled with her talent and excellent surgical skills, have made Dr. Hicks a sought-after rhinoplasty surgeon. Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Hicks to explore your ethnic rhinoplasty options in Greenville, South Carolina.
