Rhinoplasty, or a “nose job,” has always been a top cosmetic surgical procedure for both sexes. In 2020, it was the most popular cosmetic surgery for both men and women, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. And patient concerns are usually similar between the sexes, but resolving the issues through surgery is handled very differently.
“The goal of male rhinoplasty surgery is to achieve an improved but natural masculine contour while correcting any internal deformities that may be causing breathing difficulties,” stated Dr. Parker.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss how a male rhinoplasty differs from a female rhinoplasty and show patient before and after pictures to illustrate some of those distinctions.
Key Differences in Male vs. Female Rhinoplasty Surgery
”There are many differences between creating the optimal male nose versus the female nose. The male face is heavier, squarer, and more pronounced than the female face. We work to create a male nose that is wider and straighter without the slight curve we give a female nose. There are also several differences in the tip of a male nose. It’s broader and fuller than a woman’s nose,” explained Dr. Parker.
A male nose tends to be more dominant on the face with a stronger profile. In correcting a male nose, Dr. Parker uses the following key differences to maintain a strong masculine appearance for his patients:
Nose Bridge
The male dorsal bridge is wider and straighter, with less concavity at the part of the nose between the eyes than the female nose, and it should remain straight. In contrast, a female nose may have 1 to 2 mm of curvature and a supra-tip break.
Columella Angle
The angle of the nasal columella (that separates the nostrils) to the upper lip should be 90 degrees in men versus 95 degrees in women.
Nose Tip
The nasal tip is broader and more bulbous in men versus that of a more refined tip in women. The nasal skin in men is usually thicker, which limits the amount of change that can be achieved.
“When all of these characteristics are combined, you have a framework to create a male nose as opposed to a feminine one. When you factor in the size and shape of an individual’s face, we develop a unique, personalized surgical plan to achieve a balanced, proportional nose,” explained Dr. Parker.
Computer Imaging to Visualize Results
When you have a consultation for rhinoplasty, Dr. Parker will listen to your concerns, explain a surgical plan for correction and use computer imaging to help our patients visualize their anticipated results. Patients enjoy seeing their before and after imaging; it also assists Dr. Parker in understanding their surgical goals.
“The way Dr. Parker approached me when we first met was great. He was professional, knowledgeable and really made me feel comfortable. He was confident that he could give me exactly what I wanted, and he did. My nose is perfect. I looked exactly the way they showed me I would with the computer imaging before the surgery. I cannot begin to tell you how happy I am,” said Larry, a rhinoplasty patient.
How Is Rhinoplasty Performed?
Depending upon the type of correction to be done, Dr. Parker will perform a closed rhinoplasty for very minor corrections, an open rhinoplasty (most common type), or a tip plasty (surgery involving only the tip of the nose).
The nose and chin together help determine your profile. In about 15% to 20% of cases, a chin augmentation procedure is done in conjunction with rhinoplasty surgery in order to build out the chin and achieve better facial balance.
Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia and lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the plastic surgery. Patients go home about an hour after the surgery with a plastic splint on their nose for protection.
The splint is removed after one week. Patients can return to normal activities in seven to ten days after surgery and may exercise after two weeks.
“Your nose is the most dominant feature on your face. Changing the look of your nose can dramatically alter your appearance. Using these guidelines, I’m working to keep the male nose masculine and keep the female nose feminine while still achieving an aesthetically pleasing result,” said Dr. Parker.
Schedule a Consultation
At the Parker Center for Plastic Surgery, rhinoplasty procedures are performed by Dr. Paul M. Parker at their on-site, state-of-the-art, fully accredited, ambulatory surgical center, Surgiplex, LLC. To learn more about your rhinoplasty options, request a consultation using our online form or call our offices at (201) 967-1212.
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