Many people consider rhinoplasty because they want to smooth out a bump on the bridge of their nose or change its overall shape.
The “Old Way” vs. a “Newer Approach” to Nose Reshaping
Traditional Method: Think of the traditional way like sculpting from the top. To reduce a bump or lower the bridge, surgeons would remove bone and cartilage directly from the top of your nasal bridge. While this can fix the bump, it can sometimes change the natural lines of your nose quite a bit, and there’s a risk it might look a little “done” or unnatural.
Dorsal Preservation Rhinoplasty (The Newer Approach): This is what we’re excited about! “Dorsal” just refers to the bridge of your nose. “Preservation” means we try to keep its natural structure and lines as much as possible.
How it’s Different: Instead of removing bone and cartilage from the top of the bridge, the surgeon makes changes from underneath. Imagine carefully lowering the entire bridge structure from below, rather than chiseling away at the surface. This helps keep the original smooth lines of your nose intact.
The Goal: To give you the results you want (like removing a bump) while respecting and maintaining your nose’s unique, natural appearance.
Why Patients Often Prefer This Preservation Technique
The results with dorsal preservation rhinoplasty tend to make patients happier, which means it’s less likely you’d need a follow-up surgery (revision rhinoplasty). Here’s why:
- Keeps Your Nose Looking Naturally Yours: It helps maintain the natural width and smooth contours of your nasal bridge.
- Better for Straightening a Crooked Nose: It can lead to improved symmetry if your nose is a bit crooked.
- Less Reconstruction Needed: Your surgeon usually needs less cartilage to rebuild or support the nose.
In short, dorsal preservation rhinoplasty is an advanced technique that aims to correct issues like a nasal bump while ensuring your nose still looks like your nose, fitting naturally with your face. It’s about refining, not completely rebuilding, to achieve a look you’ll love.
