Hispanic Rhinoplasty

A Hispanic rhinoplasty is a variation of the traditional rhinoplasty procedure that is designed to enhance the appearance and function of the nose while preserving the physical characteristics seen in those of Hispanic and Latin descent. Unique ethnic characteristics often manifest strongly in the nose across all heritages; it is important to work with someone who has a deep understanding of nasal anatomy to provide balanced and natural-looking results to each patient.

Dr. Richard Chaffoo is the surgical director and co-founder of La Jolla Plastic Surgery & Dermatology™. Dr. Chaffoo is one ofAmerica’s Few Triple Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons. He is a past president of the San Diego Plastic Surgery Society. Dr. Chaffoo also performs revision rhinoplasty surgery, which is one of the most challenging plastic surgery procedures. Patients are referred to him by his plastic surgery colleagues due to his expertise and training in both plastic surgery and Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, a level of training achieved by less than 1% of all plastic surgeons.

Dr. Susan Stuart is one of the co-founders of La Jolla Plastic Surgery & Dermatology™, and she is a board-certified dermatologist and hair restoration superspecialist. She is a go-to dermatologist for a number of publications, including InStyle and The Huffington Post. Dr. Stuart actively works with the medical industry to create new groundbreaking treatments and works with the medical device industry to help refine new technology.

To learn more about Hispanic rhinoplasty, please schedule a consultation online or call the office most convenient for you:

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About Hispanic Rhinoplasty

Hispanic rhinoplasty is a type of ethnic rhinoplasty that is performed to improve the appearance and breathing function of the nose while preserving the physical appearance, ethnic identity, and beauty standards common across those of Hispanic or Latin descent. This procedure is designed to address common features such as thicker facial skin, a wider or taller nasal bridge, a bulbous nose tip, or a prominent dorsal hump. ⁽¹⁾ Dr. Chaffoo can perform a Hispanic rhinoplasty to enhance your appearance and help you achieve your goals, all while respecting your cultural identity.

Revision Rhinoplasty

A revision rhinoplasty is performed to correct or enhance the results of a previous rhinoplasty. If you are unsatisfied with the results of a previous procedure, Dr. Chaffoo can revise your outcome while still maintaining your ethnic traits. This procedure is considered one of the most complex variations of rhinoplasty, which is why it is important to seek the expertise of a board-certified surgeon with a background in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, such as Dr. Chaffoo.

Candidates

Candidates for a Hispanic rhinoplasty typically include patients of Hispanic or Latin descent who are interested in improving the function or aesthetic appearance of their nose while preserving their unique nasal characteristics. Patients are often looking to address flared nostrils, a prominent dorsal hump, or a bulbous nasal tip. ⁽²⁾ Those experiencing functional concerns, such as deviated septa or nasal blockages, can also benefit from this procedure. ⁽¹⁾

Patients interested in this procedure should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations regarding the results of this procedure. Dr. Chaffoo will determine each patient’s candidacy during their personal consultation.

Personal Consultation

Before scheduling your rhinoplasty, you will need to attend a personal consultation with Dr. Chaffoo. During this consultation, he will take the time to discuss your goals and concerns while reviewing what a rhinoplasty entails. He will evaluate your nose, as well as your facial features. Computer imaging can also be performed to simulate the result of your rhinoplasty.

To schedule this consultation, please contact us online or call the office nearest you:

Preparation

Dr. Chaffoo will provide you with a comprehensive list of preparation instructions. Each of these instructions should be followed to ensure a successful procedure.

You may be advised to discontinue taking blood-thinning medications and supplements under medical guidance. You will also need to cease any nicotine use, if applicable, and avoid alcohol for several weeks before treatment. Because we administer general anesthesia for this procedure, you will need to arrange transportation home. You will also need to request time away from your job and other commitments, as well as fill any prescriptions ahead of time.

Procedure

Dr. Chaffoo will perform an open or closed rhinoplasty, depending on your goals and concerns. An open rhinoplasty uses an incision on the columella, the strip of flesh between the nostrils. A closed rhinoplasty keeps all incisions and adjustments within the nostrils. No external incisions are made, making this technique better suited for less extensive corrections. ⁽¹⁾

When performing a Hispanic rhinoplasty, common adjustments include reducing the height of the dorsal bridge and reducing the width of the nasal base. When reducing the dorsal bridge, Dr. Chaffoo straightens the bridge while maintaining the gentle slope of the nasal tip. ⁽²⁾ He avoids aggressive or dramatic changes so that final results still harmonize with the patient’s natural appearance.

Dr. Chaffoo can reduce the width of the nasal base, or alar base, by removing a small piece of skin at the back of the nostrils before suturing the ends back together. For patients who have concerns about flaring, he can remove a small wedge of soft tissue from the outer border of the nostrils. ⁽³⁾

Dr. Chaffoo may also use cartilage grafting to restructure your nose or provide further support to the new adjustments. ⁽²⁾ Cartilage is usually taken from areas like the ears, septum, or rib.

Recovery

As you recover, it is normal to experience swelling, bruising, or tenderness around your nose and surrounding facial structures. These effects will dissipate on their own, but Dr. Chaffoo may also prescribe medications to help you manage them. He will recommend that you keep your head elevated, as this will help minimize swelling.

Throughout the first week of your recovery, you will need to continue wearing your splint to maintain the new contours of your nose. Dr. Chaffoo will ask you to return to the office for a follow-up appointment at a later date to remove the splint and check on your progress.

You will likely be able to return to work after about two weeks, but you will need to continue refraining from high-impact or physical activities until cleared to return.

Results

Once you have fully recovered, you will be able to enjoy your renewed appearance and breathing function. Your nose may appear straighter, more symmetrical, and proportionate, and it can contribute to a more balanced facial appearance. Dr. Chaffoo tailors each treatment plan to the individual, ensuring that their results align with their desired appearance.

Cost of Hispanic Rhinoplasty in San Diego and Newport Beach

Each treatment plan is tailored around your concerns, goals, and facial structure. This means that the price of your rhinoplasty may vary depending on the surgical strategies used, the corrections being made, the extent of the corrections, whether any additional procedures are performed, and several other factors. During your consultation, Dr. Chaffoo will discuss the cost of your procedure once the details of your treatment plan are set.

To learn more about the cost of your Hispanic rhinoplasty, please schedule a consultation online or call your closest office.

FAQ

References

1. Fichman M, Piedra Buena IT. Rhinoplasty. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558970/
2. Higuera S, Hatef DA, Stal S. Rhinoplasty in the Hispanic Patient. 2009;23(03):207-214. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0029-1224800
3. Kridel RWH, Castellano RD. A Simplified Approach to Alar Base Reduction. Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery. 2005;7(2):81-93. doi:https://doi.org/10.1001/archfaci.7.2.81