Types of Rhinoplasty
Medically reviewed by Dr Sreekar Harinatha, MCh (Plastic Surgery)
Rhinoplasty comes in several types, and many patients need more than one at once. Reduction makes the nose smaller, augmentation builds it up, and refinement reshapes a bulbous or drooping tip. Revision corrects a previous nose job, and reconstructive rhinoplasty rebuilds a nose after injury or cancer. Indian rhinoplasty aims for subtle changes that suit Indian features. Main guide: Rhinoplasty in Bangalore.
Types of rhinoplasty compared
| Type | What it does | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Reduction | Makes the nose smaller, or removes a hump or reduces a large tip | Large nose, bump on the bridge |
| Augmentation | Adds height or projection, often with cartilage | Flat or low bridge, weak tip |
| Refinement (tip) | Reshapes the tip, rotates it, narrows the nostril base | Bulbous, bulky or drooping tip |
| Revision | Corrects a previous rhinoplasty, for form or breathing | Leftover hump, over-reduction, breathing problems |
| Reconstructive | Rebuilds part or all of the nose with cartilage grafts and skin flaps, often in stages | After injury or cancer |
| Ethnic | Improves shape and function while keeping ethnic identity | African, Asian, Hispanic and Middle Eastern noses |
| Indian rhinoplasty | Subtle changes that balance the face and let the eyes stand out | Indian patients (see below) |
| Adolescent | Usually done after the growth spurt, around 15–16 in girls and later in boys | Teenagers who are physically and emotionally ready |
| Ageing nose | Lifts a drooping, lengthening tip and can improve breathing | Adults whose nose has changed with age |
Indian rhinoplasty by nose type
- Thick skin with a low tip: cartilage grafts define and lift the tip, reducing a bottom-heavy look.
- Thin skin with too much projection: the nose is brought closer to the face.
- Thick skin with too much projection (the hardest type): careful balancing of the tip, conservative thinning above the tip, and frequent follow-up, sometimes with steroid injections to prevent scarring. Removing cartilage as you would in a Caucasian nose is a common mistake.
- Bridge height: a lower bridge may suit a petite woman, and a stronger bridge a taller man, depending on the whole face.
Frequently asked questions
At what age can rhinoplasty be done?
Usually after the nose stops growing, around 15–16 in girls and a little later in boys. Earlier surgery is considered only after injury.
Related pages: Rhinoplasty · Rhinoplasty FAQs · Rhinoplasty surgery day
This page is for general information and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Results vary from person to person. Every procedure carries risks, which your surgeon will explain at your consultation.