Rhinoplasty 101: Everything You Need to Know about the Dorsal Hump
Actors Adrian Brody and Sarah Jessica Parker rely on their dorsal humps to win them unique roles, but you’re most likely not auditioning for the next quirky comedy.
As the center point of our face, the shape, and the size of our nose play a significant role in our appearance and the first impression we make. The largest and most prominent component of the nose is the nasal dorsum, a region of bone and cartilage that runs from between the eyes to the nose tip.
Whether due to genetics or injury, the nasal dorsum can become enlarged, humped, and aesthetically unpleasing. In the rhinoplasty specialist’s office, dorsal hump surgery is one of the most common requests.
Contact us at PERK to schedule your Beverly Hills Rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Lee.
What is the Dorsal Hump?
Commonly referred to as the nose ‘bridge,’ the nasal dorsum connects the tip of our nose to our face. An enlarged nasal dorsum is frequently referred to as a dorsal hump, as bone or cartilage along the bridge forms a bump or pronounced nasal shape. A hump on the top of the nasal bridge is typically bony. A hump lower down consists mostly of cartilage.
The shape of our nose, and particularly the bridge, heavily influence the character of our entire face. As such, when the nasal dorsum develops a dorsal hump, it impacts the aesthetics of the face, particularly when viewed from the side.
For two reasons, it is vital that you consult only a highly experienced and specialized surgeon about the rhinoplasty techniques available to you. The nose involves delicate bones and planes of cartilage, and surgeons must use extreme caution when manipulating them. More than your appearance is at stake during a rhinoplasty. Inaccurate surgery can result in functional issues. The last thing you want is breathing issues that interrupt your sleep, make your struggle for breath during the day, or develop loud breathing patterns. Secondly, since the results will be “as plain as the nose on your face,” only the most ideal outcome will do. Rhinoplasty results cannot be hidden as easily as those from the tummy tuck or even breast augmentation.
Under the Dorsal Hump
A dorsal hump can result from genetic factors, the trauma inflicted during birth, or an injury. If the nose is broken or dislodged, it must be set carefully to heal correctly.
Many patients Dr. Lee have previously sustained nasal injuries which were never adequately addressed. When the nose heals abnormally, the bone or cartilage sets in a way that creates a large bump on the nose – a dorsal hump.
More dorsal humps result from genetic factors, and some families take great pride in them. If you have a dorsal hump like your mother or grandfather, getting it removed could involve some explanation. Still,
when others see how well a trim nose complements the other familial facial features, they may follow your example!
Dorsal Hump Surgery and Recovery
Whether your dorsal hump springs from injury or heredity, most likely, you’ll be scheduled for a “reduction rhinoplasty.” The surgeon first determines whether your dorsal hump consists mostly of cartilage, bone or both. Its makeup determines the surgical technique. A rhinoplasty surgeon can remove both bone and cartilage, giving you a straighter line from top to tip.
The biggest rhinoplasty challenges come when patients with thick skin need significant bone and cartilage removed. Only the most experienced rhinoplasty surgeons ensure ideal outcomes.
Recovering from rhinoplasty surgery involves minimal discomfort easily controlled with mild analgesics. You’ll wear a cast for six days and place ice on the eyes to keep swelling under control. Read in-depth about rhinoplasty recovery.
Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty or the Liquid Nose Job for the Dorsal Hump
Surgery isn’t the only solution to the dorsal hump. Dermal fillers injected above and below the dorsal hump can reduce its pronounced appearance as well. This technique, called non-surgical rhinoplasty or liquid rhinoplasty, involves the injection of small amounts of filler into the nose to fill in gaps, round points and more. Numbing agents make any pain insignificant. Recovery is short and uncomplicated. Still, dermal fillers are a temporary solution, requiring regular maintenance (injections every 6—12 months.)
Those with small dorsal humps often begin with the liquid nose job to see how these treatments change their appearance and people’s responses to them. Patients unhappy with the results can get them reversed immediately with injections that dissolve the fillers, a safe and simple procedure.
Exploring the Best Dorsal Hump Surgery
A dorsal hump, whether inherited or inflicted through injury, does considerably affect our facial aesthetics. On both a personal and professional level, presenting the most attractive version of yourself to the world will instill you with confidence, positivity, and an enhanced sense of self-worth.
Fortunately, rhinoplasty performed by a specialist surgeon offers patients a reliable solution to fixing a dorsal hump. Whereas many generalist surgeons claim to achieve outstanding rhinoplasty results, the delicate nature of a rhinoplasty procedure should relegate it to only the top echelon of rhinoplasty specialists. Talk with Dr. Lee during your consultation to explore the best options for you.
