2023-03-18
Hump Nose Surgery: Finding the Right Correction Method for You
Learn about hump nose surgery, its causes (congenital or acquired), and various correction methods tailored to individual nose types. Discover post-operative care tips and answers to frequently asked questions.

A nose shape referred to as a ‘hump nose’
describes a nose that resembles a bird's beak.
This means that due to excessive development from the nasal bone to the nasal cartilage,
the middle part is high, while the beginning and end are low and elongated.
Generally, this shape is more common in Westerners than in East Asians, but with recent economic
development and changes in diet and lifestyle,
the prevalence of this nose shape is increasing in Korea as well.

When examining the causes, there are two main types.
One is when the nasal bone shows excessive growth during the developmental process,
and the other is acquired causes such as accidents, trauma, or deviated septum.
During the growth period, cartilage also undergoes rapid growth,
which can significantly alter the shape of the nose.
A smooth nose in childhood changing into a hump nose shape as one grows
is also due to this reason.
If the nasal tip cartilage does not grow properly compared to the growth of the nasal bone and bridge,
only the nasal bridge bone may become prominent. Also, if the septal cartilage grows excessively
compared to the size of the nasal cavity,
this can also lead to hump nose symptoms.

Beyond congenital reasons, acquired factors include direct impact to the nasal bone,
as well as complications from the worsening of various conditions such as deviated septum, rhinitis, and sinusitis.
Even if the nasal bone is injured after an impact and then regenerates excessively,
these symptoms can occur.
If the septal cartilage is excessively large, it can bend, leading to symptoms such as nasal obstruction.
While not all hump noses are like this, functional problems can arise depending on the nose's structure and internal
shape, so if you frequently experience nasal obstruction, it may be a good idea to get a diagnosis.

Furthermore, the nose itself is located at the center of the face,
and it is an important part not only for achieving a three-dimensional look but also for a trendy appearance.
While a low nose can convey a gentle and comfortable impression,
a high nose can project a strong and sharp image.
Therefore, many people seek correction due to the height of the nose and the unevenness of the nasal bridge,
which can give an unstable and strong impression.
It is important to note that in Western countries,
due to excessive development, noses are often large, and this includes their height,
so correction often proceeds in the form of reduction to generally decrease the size.

Even among East Asians, particularly in Korea, there are many cases of small hump noses,
which means it is necessary to set the scope of hump nose surgery correction not only for size but also for detailed design.
There are actually various types, and classification is possible based on the height of the glabella, the length of the nasal bridge, and
the height of the nasal tip. Depending on each type,
implants may or may not be used.
There are several criteria, such as when the glabella is moderate or high, or low; when the nasal bridge is
short or long; and when the nasal tip height is moderate or high,
or even low.
According to research conducted over the past 5 years on approximately 450 people,
a hump nose can be subdivided based on the criteria mentioned earlier,
and it is also possible to classify cases based on whether an implant is needed during hump nose surgery.
For hump nose surgery, these aspects must be confirmed and procedures should be planned accordingly.

If the glabella height is moderate and the nasal tip is high, sufficient correction can be achieved
by simply removing the hump without implant insertion.
If the glabella height is moderate and the nasal tip is low and short,
hump nose surgery can also be performed by removing the hump without the aid of an implant,
slightly raising the nasal tip, and extending the length of the nose.
If the glabella height is moderate and the nasal tip is low and long,
hump nose surgery can be sufficiently performed with hump removal and nasal tip shortening.
However, if the nasal bridge is low and the nasal tip height is acceptable,
correction can be achieved by raising the nasal bridge simultaneously with hump removal. If only the glabella is low,
hump nose surgery using fillers may also be possible.
If the glabella is low and short, correction can be planned by raising the nasal bridge after hump removal
and performing nasal tip extension. If the glabella is
low and the nasal tip is also low and long, hump nose surgery involving hump
removal, raising the nasal bridge, and nasal tip shortening can be considered.

Hump nose surgery, which involves shaving down the protruding nasal bridge bone,
is not easy; it is a delicate procedure that requires skilled techniques.
Additionally, the space created between the nasal tip and the hump after shaving the nasal bridge bone
can be smoothed out by filling it with autologous cartilage such as septal cartilage or ear cartilage.
Most importantly, while a nose may have a hump shape,
it does not mean that all shapes are identical.
Even after a diagnosis, there are differences in shape, form, and degree,
so it is necessary to confirm the symptoms for each individual and proceed with a customized process.

Post-operative care after hump nose surgery is also crucial.
For about 3 days after hump nose surgery, cold compresses should be used to prevent additional bleeding
and reduce swelling.
Once the swelling has subsided to a certain extent, after about a week,
the splint can be removed, followed by suture removal, after which daily
life is possible.
Blowing or touching the nose is possible about 2-3 weeks after hump nose surgery,
but due to concerns about inflammation,
it is advisable to avoid alcohol, smoking, and strenuous exercise for about 1 month.
** Please be informed that this post is a promotional post written by Diva Plastic Surgery in compliance with the Medical Advertising Act. **
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of nose shape is a hump nose?
A hump nose refers to a nose shape that resembles a bird's beak, where the nasal bone to the nasal cartilage is excessively developed, making the middle part high and the beginning and end low and elongated.
What causes a hump nose?
A hump nose primarily results from two causes: congenital factors, such as excessive growth of the nasal bone during development, and acquired factors, including accidents, trauma, or a deviated septum.
Can a hump nose cause functional problems?
Yes, a hump nose can lead to functional problems depending on the structure and internal shape of the nose. Particularly, if the septal cartilage is excessively large, it can bend, causing symptoms like nasal obstruction.
How is hump nose surgery performed?
Hump nose surgery is performed in various ways, tailored to the individual's nose type. Factors such as glabella height, nasal bridge length, and nasal tip height are considered to customize the procedure, including whether to use implants, hump removal, nasal tip plasty, and nose length adjustment.
What is the post-operative care for hump nose surgery?
After hump nose surgery, cold compresses should be applied for 3 days to manage bleeding and swelling. After about a week, the splint and sutures can be removed, and daily life can resume. Blowing or touching the nose is permissible after 2-3 weeks, but it is advisable to avoid alcohol, smoking, and strenuous exercise for about 1 month due to the risk of inflammation.
Is hump nose surgery a difficult procedure?
Yes, hump nose surgery, which involves shaving down the protruding nasal bridge bone, is a complex procedure that requires skilled techniques. After shaving the nasal bridge bone, the space between the nasal tip and the hump can be smoothed out by filling it with autologous cartilage.