There are many reasons to pursue rhinoplasty or nose reshaping surgery used to enhance the overall appearance of the nose. One of the reasons patients come to Dr. Mashhadian at Rodeo Surgical Art is to correct the tip of the nose because they are unhappy with the shape. A square nose, also known as a “boxy tip” can create a wide tip that makes the nose look thicker and broader than many individuals like. This problem can be easily corrected with a rhinoplasty procedure specifically designed to narrow the nasal tip and create the triangular shape that is considered more attractive by most of our patients.
THE ANATOMY OF A SQUARE NOSE
A square nose is a common problem among Caucasians, but may also be seen in patients of other ethnicities. You can tell if you have a square nose by looking at the underside of this feature, where the nostrils are visible. A triangular shape is what most people want, with a broader side between the nostrils and a narrower angle at the tip.
With a square nose, the underside of the nose is rectangular, which makes the entire nose look wider. Some people mistakenly refer to this as a “bulbous” nose. However, unlike a bulbous nose, a square nose has the additional separation of the alar cartilages, which must also be corrected during surgery to achieve a natural result. While a square nose can be bulbous as well, not all noses have both characteristics.
CORRECTION OF A SQUARE NOSE
If you are looking for correction of a square nose, it is important to choose a plastic surgeon that is qualified in all types of rhinoplasty procedures. Dr. Mashhadian is experienced in correcting the square nose concern, offering a variety of techniques that can be tailored to the unique needs of each patient. In some cases, the procedure may involve less invasive surgery that focuses on the nasal tip, while other patients may need an open rhinoplasty technique to achieve the most dramatic correction and best results.
Correction of a boxy tip is generally performed by altering the alar cartilage on either side of the lower portion of the nose. Cartilage is trimmed and brought together to form a more triangular shape and held in place with sutures. If necessary, a cartilage graft will be used to further enhance the shape of the nasal tip and overall profile of the nose.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Dr. Mashhadian performs most rhinoplasty procedures on an outpatient basis using either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. If he is able to use a closed technique, all incisions will be made inside the nasal cavities. If an open technique is necessary, a small incision will be made across the tissue that separates the nostrils on the underside of the nose. Visible scarring after this procedure will be minimal.
Patients may go home with dressings and splints to hold the nose in place during the healing process. Bruising and swelling are common after rhinoplasty, but will subside on their own within a matter of weeks. Once the full results of your rhinoplasty are evident, they should be permanent.
