Correction of a Dorsal Hump

A dorsal hump refers to a convexity on the nasal bridge that looks like a bump on the nose. This nasal issue may be comprised of bone, cartilage, or a mixture of both – the nature of the hump varies.

The presence of a hump is quite natural. However, a dorsal hump is typically unpleasing to the eye, especially if it is very prominent. Numerous patients seek to undergo open or closed rhinoplasty to correct their dorsal hump in order to provide their nose with a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Eligibility Criteria

Before a person can undergo rhinoplasty surgery, they will need to be cleared by a surgeon during a consultation. The prospective patient must be generally in good health and should not have any infections on the face.

The surgeon will typically provide the patient with a detailed pre-op plan that they will need to follow rigorously. The patient will be advised to quit smoking at least four weeks before the surgery, and alcohol consumption needs to be moderated as well.

The patient should neither be pregnant nor a breastfeeding mother. They can come in for the surgery once they have completed the breastfeeding period.

Cartilage and/or Bone Removal

If the dorsal hump is present on the upper section of your nose, your surgeon will typically perform rhinoplasty to remove excess bone, as the upper third of your bone is made up of bone. If the dorsal hump is predominantly present on the lower or middle third of the nose, the surgeon is more likely to be trimming cartilage from your nose to remove the hump.

Most dorsal humps are typically a combination of bone and cartilage, and it is uncommon for a surgeon to need to eliminate only bone or cartilage. Your surgeon will provide you with a detailed idea of exactly how much bone/cartilage will be removed during the pre-op consultation, and you will have control over the amount removed.

The Recovery Process

During the recovery process, the surgeon may use a splint to stabilize the nasal region, and this region may be wrapped in tape as well. The splint, if required, should be worn for at least a week, and the patient needs to wrap the nose on a daily basis for at least two weeks.

A degree of post-surgical swelling and bruising will be present. In order to aid in the reduction of these issues, cold compresses may be recommended. It will be vital to avoid any sort of nasal trauma during the healing process, as the area will be temporarily weakened.

Full post-operative nasal care directions will be given to the patient by their surgeon during the pre-operative consultation. It is extremely important to follow these directions as closely as possible.

Finding the Right Surgeon for You

The dorsal hump reduction can lead to aesthetic and functional issues if performed incorrectly, and this is why your choice of surgeon is exceedingly crucial. The right surgeon will be able to sculpt your nose perfectly and naturally in relation to the rest of your face to avoid looking like you have undergone a nose job.

For the dorsal hump reduction results you deserve, visit skilled and experienced board-certified plastic surgeons Doctors William Umansky and Jeffrey Umansky. These two well-respected medical professionals will be happy to help you reach your aesthetic goals. Contact our office today for a consultation!