Despite being a complicated cosmetic procedure, rhinoplasty remains the most requested surgery, according to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS).
Dubbed the “nose job,” rhinoplasty has evolved over the years. What started as a “plastic repair of a broken nose” by the ancient Egyptians in 3,000BC has progressed into a variation of procedures.
From ultrasound, revision, and ethnic rhinoplasty to preservation rhinoplasty, the technology has changed but the basics stay the same.
Previously, patients opted for nose jobs that transformed their features and were immediately recognized. Now, it’s all about subtle changes and small tweaks. We’ll delve into the world of delicate rhinoplasty trends below.
Introducing the ‘Baby Rhino’
Jennifer Grey’s plastic surgery story is a cautionary tale about trying too hard to fit into Hollywood’s obsession with impossible beauty standards.
Following the success of the 1987 film ‘Dirty Dancing’, Grey expected the offers to pile up. They didn’t. Instead critics said it was her Jewish features, specifically her nose, that were to blame. After undergoing two rhinoplasty procedures, the actor’s facial features looked unrecognizable and lost her shot at fame.
Other celebs have been open about their nose jobs. Iggy Azalea credits her plastic surgeon for giving her the “best celebrity nose job.” Lisa Kudrow admits getting a nose job at 16 was a “life-altering” experience.
However, in a world where the pursuit of perfection straddles a fine line between looking natural and going full-on extreme, “baby rhinoplasty” is all the rage.
The “super subtle” natural-looking nose job requires minimum invasive changes for the desired look.
Popsugar’s Jessica Ourisman opted for the procedure due to the lack of refinement towards the tip of her nose.
Ourisman says she had an easy recovery and got used to her new nose within two weeks. Looks-wise, it resolved her issues and thus far she’s happy with the outcome.
Ethnic Rhinoplasty Surgery
Shah Aesthetic Surgery describes ethnic rhinoplasty as a specialized procedure that reshapes the nose while preserving ethnic features.
The practice is fairly new and came into being after plastic surgeons realized there’s no one-size-fits-all. Eurocentrism has always been a moot point for non-white patients wanting to improve their appearances.
Although many patients have the surgery done for medical reasons, others only want to feel good about themselves. The problem was that rhinoplasty traditionally erased ethnic features, reports Essence Magazine.
One only needs to look at the late Michael Jackson and rapper Lil’ Kim to know a thin dorsum, and a rotated and narrow nasal tip representing “the perfect” nose.
According to the National Library of Medicine (NIH), Black patients especially prefer nasal refinements that preserve their identity.
Dr Steven Williams, president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, tells Essence that previously ethnic rhinoplasty referred to any type of surgery performed on the nose of an ethnic person.
Now, it embraces the concept of preserving some of those ethnic characteristics. Modern techniques consider the structural differences of ethnic noses to enhance features while preserving race identity.
High-Speed Sound Waves
Also known as piezo rhinoplasty, ultrasonic rhinoplasty is a less invasive procedure that uses high-speed sound waves to reshape nasal bones and cartilage.
The technique facilitates precision reshaping of the nose. And since the procedure has gained fame on social media, ultrasonic rhinoplasty has taken on a life of its own.
Dr Olivier Gerbault, the inventor of this type of rhinoplasty, tells Medical Expo that it can be used on open and closed rhinoplasty techniques.
Open rhinoplasty uses a small incision to lift the skin, bones, and cartilage, making it ideal for reshaping the nose. Long instruments are used in closed rhinoplasty for precise adjustments inside the nose without external incisions.
Insecure?
A 2024 study found that rhinoplasty surgery can have a positive impact on self-esteem, body image, and depression.
The findings, published in Discover Psychology, highlighted significant progression in quality of life, social functioning, and overall appearance satisfaction. They underscored the procedure’s broader psychological and emotional benefits beyond physical changes.
Despite proof that plastic surgery can offer a sense of control for those with body dysmorphia and anxiety, the general public remains adverse to the thought of cosmetic modifications.
Because of this outlook, subtle facial plastic surgery trends will continue to grow and nobody will know you’ve had “work done.” You’ll just look like a more natural, brighter version of yourself. As a famous cosmetic brand says, “You, only better!”
If considering a rhinoplasty procedure, consult a board-certified plastic surgeon with vast experience in nasal surgery.
A professional writer with over a decade of incessant writing skills. Her topics of interest and expertise range from health, nutrition and psychology.
