Choosing the Right Shape for Your New Nose

Dr. Philip Miller

May 21, 2018

Now that you have decided to have cosmetic nasal surgery, the next step is to decide what the best shape may be for your new nose. That all-important step takes place during private consultation with your plastic surgeon. Here, the doctor will spell out what can and cannot be done in surgery. What determines the limits are the very size and shape of your present nose, and the very architecture of your face.

The plastic surgeon in New York factors in a number of variables in the design of the surgical procedure. Existing skin, cartilage, and bone structure all determine how much nasal shaping is possible within the limits of reason, surgical skill, and technology.

For example, while surgery to reduce a large nose is very common, there is a limit to just how small the nose can be made.  The underlying framework of bone and cartilage can be reduced in size, but the skin itself is often left untouched.  Furthermore, the nose must work with the other facial features. If the nose is too small for the chin or cheeks, the overall facial appearance will be unbalanced. Despite these limitations, a skilled surgeon can create many pleasant and subtle adjustments to the existing nose structure that will leave you feeling satisfied. The results of cosmetic nasal surgery are never rushed or drastic. They bring out the best of the nose you have in near perfect harmony and balance with other facial features.

Shape and Looks 

When choosing the right shape of your new nose, always strive toward a natural look that maximizes the size, shape, and proportion of your natal nose. A female patient, therefore, will desire more feminine results compared to a male patient, including a straight nasal bridge, a slight, youthful “lift,” and a nose that is neither too long nor too pointed, and one with slender nostrils.

You may have been inspired by the wonderful results of a friend or celebrity who had a nose job. Keep in mind, however, that the plastic surgeon is not a miracle worker. He or she can only work within the normal parameters of the nose nature gave you. Any “copycat” surgery to mimic the results of a popular actor may appear artificial and out of balance with your facial makeup. However, pictures of noses that you do like can be helpful during the consultation process to communicate what it is that you do and do not like, but keep an open mind to what your doctors recommends.

Most of all, make sure your surgeon is board certified, well experienced in rhinoplasty, and able to deliver results. Look at his or her before and after pictures and check out their credentials. While it may not be possible or best for you to receive just about any nose, a skilled plastic surgeon can help you make the most of the nose you were born with.

Let a New York Plastic Surgeon help you with your Nose

Dr. Philip Miller is a board certified facial plastic surgeon with offices located at 60 East 56th, Third Floor, New York, N.Y. Call (646) 791-3025for a personal consultation.

Next, read all about what Bridalplasty and Rhinoplasty Have in Common.

Dr. Philip Miller

Focusing exclusively on the face for more than two decades, double-board certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Philip Miller blends art and science with innovation and skill to provide thousands of patients with impeccable results. He is known for pioneering the NatraLook methodology for rhinoplasty, facelifts, neck lifts, and other cosmetic procedures for the face.