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Correcting a Bulbous and Dragon Nose: Natural Transformation with Closed Rhinoplasty

noselab

Surgical History:

Hello, this is Dr. Cha-Young Kang, Director of Nose Lab Clinic.


nose shape and columella retraction. Through this case, I’ll outline our approach to achieve natural and balanced results using a closed rhinoplasty technique.


1. Patient’s Surgical History and Goals

Pre-Surgery Design Consultation: Frontal View, Left Side View, and Oblique Side View Photos


Surgical History:

  • Three years ago: Nasal filler injections (two to three sessions with 1-year and 5-year fillers)

  • Eight months ago: Philtrum reduction surgery


Goals:

  • Correct bulbous (wide) nasal tip and dragon nose appearance

  • Address columella retraction


2. Pre-Surgical Analysis

Pre-Surgery Design Consultation: Nostril View, Right Side View, and Oblique Side View Photos


  • Front View: Bulbous, wide nasal tip with a dragon-like contour; low nasion, with a slightly deviated bridge

  • Side View: Low nasion and retracted columella; protrusive lip profile

  • Nostril View: Asymmetry in nostril shape


3. Surgical Plan


To achieve the desired outcomes, we devised a strategic surgical plan:


  • Bulbous Nose Correction:

    • Septal extension graft for better support and definition

    • Removal of excess subcutaneous tissue

    • Repositioning and suturing of alar cartilage to create a more refined tip

  • Dragon Nose Correction:

    • Repositioning alar cartilage to reduce the dragon-like contour

    • Lowering the nostrils by adding septal cartilage to the alar structure for a more harmonious shape

  • Tip Elevation:

    • Using septal cartilage and donor rib cartilage for a controlled septal extension graft to elevate the tip and provide a natural contour

  • Bridge Correction:

    • Complete removal of residual filler

    • Insertion of a silicone implant to create a straight, balanced bridge line


4. Post-Surgical Results

Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)

Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)

Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)

Before Surgery (Left) / Immediately After Surgery (Right)


  • Nasal Contour: The previous bulbous and slightly deviated shape was refined, achieving a balanced and natural appearance.

  • Columella: Lowering the columella adjusted the nasolabial angle, enhancing the profile’s balance.

  • Bridge Proportion: Raising the nasion improved the overall proportions of the nose and face.

  • Nostril Symmetry: Nostril asymmetry was corrected, giving a more uniform, natural appearance.

Photos Immediately After Surgery: Frontal, Side, and Oblique Side Views











Photos Immediately After Surgery: Nostril View


5. Key Points in Bulbous Nose Correction


  • The goal isn’t to make the nose overly thin but to achieve a natural balance. Defining the tip and enhancing the contours with structural support are more effective than reducing overall size.

  • Tip projection and height are crucial to create depth and balance. The tip’s height enhances its three-dimensional look.

  • Cartilage repositioning and suturing refine the shape, helping the nose appear slimmer without losing natural appeal.

  • Caution is essential when removing subcutaneous tissue. Over-removal can lead to complications like skin necrosis or excessive scarring, which could worsen the bulbous appearance. Consulting with a specialist is key for safe and precise results.


Correcting bulbous and dragon nose features requires a tailored approach based on individual anatomy. At Nose Lab Clinic, we carefully analyze each patient’s unique needs to design an optimal surgical plan. If you’re considering a natural and balanced nasal enhancement, consult a specialist to find the best approach for you.


Thank you,


Dr. Cha-Young Kang, Director of Nose Lab Clinic.



 
 
 

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