Rhinoplasty for Bulbous Tip

What is a Bulbous Tip?

A bulbous tip refers to a common physical attribute where the tip of the nose is enlarged and appears rounded. A bulbous tip can be part of an overall wide nose or can be isolated, creating visual imbalances with the upper nose and face. They can also be described as bally, fat, or circular. A bulbous tip can draw unwanted attention to itself and distract from other features of your face. Factors that cause bulbous tips include:

Thick nasal skin
Heavy soft tissue coverage
Poorly defined or enlarged Lower Lateral cartilages
Weak cartilage

Besides typical anatomical issues, some patients can develop bulbous tips as they age due to cartilage softening or the development of thicker skin or medical skin issues, such as Rosacea.

Rhinoplasty for Bulbous Tips

Rhinoplasty for bulbous involves reshaping the nasal tip for a more complementary look that can make you more attractive. Your specific anatomy will determine the exact nature of your corrective surgery. Among the techniques for correcting a bulbous tip are:

Cartilage removal. The surgeon removes excess cartilage and uses the remaining cartilage to reshape the tip, reducing the size and rounded appearance of a bulbous tip.
Suturing. With skill and precision, dome suturing creates a more defined nasal tip.
Cartilage grafting can be used for a refined look by adding strength to the nose and enhancing highlights.

Open or Closed Rhinoplasty

Two rhinoplasty options can be used depending on the preference and experience of the surgeon:

Closed Rhinoplasty

Leaves no visible scars. The procedure is performed with only incisions inside the nostrils.

Open Rhinoplasty

Open rhinoplasty uses incisions inside the nose and across the columella (the strip of skin between the nostrils).

It is important to note that correction of the bulbous tip cannot be done through a non-surgical procedure. When fixing a bulbous tip, the surgery entails the removal of cartilage, creating a smaller, more defined nasal structure. Using fillers will not achieve the intended results.

The Perfect Nose

Understanding Rhinoplasty

Download Dr. Westreich's Free E-Book describing all there is to know about rhinoplasty surgery and what you should know when considering a rhinoplasty.

Download