As a plastic surgeon specializing in Asian cosmetic procedures, I understand that the unique facial structure of Asian patients demands a different rhinoplasty approach. In Honolulu, our Hawaii rhinoplasty patients come from various racial and ethnic backgrounds, but they share the goal of having a nose that is in harmony with the rest of their face. That’s why it’s so important that a surgeon understands the nuances of working with many different patients.

Nose surgery for an Asian patient usually involves creating an aesthetically attractive nose that is larger by carefully grafting cartilage and using silicone implants. The implants are used to raise the bridge of the nose, while cartilage taken from an inconspicuous area of the ear is used to reshape the tip.

In contrast, most Caucasian patients who see me for a nose job either want smaller noses or wish to smooth out a dorsal hump on the bridge of the nose. These different outcomes call for different surgical techniques.

With an Asian patient, the actual procedure can take 1 to 3 hours, unless it is combined with other facial procedures like jaw contouring or cheek contouring. Depending on the patient, the surgery may be performed as a closed procedure, with incisions inside the nose, or an open procedure with an incision across the small strip of skin that separates the nostrils. All of these options are discussed during your consultation.

Recovery from this procedure is relatively mild, and most patients are able to return to work and normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Results will be visible within the first month, but it may take up to 6 months or a year until patients are able to see their final results.

If you feel ready to make a change to the size or shape of your nose, please request a consultation with me to discuss your cosmetic goals. You can also call my office at (808) 207-7345 to schedule an appointment.