Guide to a Male Rhinoplasty

There is a prevailing myth that cosmetic surgeries such as rhinoplasties are only for women or narcissists, but this could not be further from the truth. Cosmetic procedures for men are rising in popularity at a rapid rate, and as men become more comfortable with cosmetic procedures, they are also requesting rhinoplasties to correct functional issues, such as sports injury related traumas and deviated septums, as well as for purely aesthetic reasons and to achieve a greater facial harmony. In today’s competitive work and social environments, it makes perfect sense to want balanced and proportional features that boost self-confidence and reflect a strong personality.

Ideal Male Rhinoplasty Nose Shape

In considering a male rhinoplasty, Dr. De Silva believes it is essential to consider the differences between a male and a female nose. The typically desired features for a male nose, though each patient will have a different, customized “ideal” nose, are a straighter profile, a stronger, higher bridge, a more sharply defined nasal tip, and stronger, more masculine features, whereas a woman typically benefit from a more delicate, feminine look. The aesthetic proportions of a male and female nose also differ, especially around the dorsal hump positioning, nasal width, and nasal tip angle. Men also request more non-traditionally handsome results to reflect their individual character, and very often will want to keep their ethnic shape; the goal of the rhinoplasty is not for a “cookie cutter” look, but a subtle enhancement to the facial proportions. Men especially have a horror of looking “done,” and the rhinoplasty results are therefore usually much more subtle than with a female rhinoplasty.

Difference Between Male & Female Rhinoplasty

Thus, though the surgical skills and rhinoplasty techniques required for male and female rhinoplasties are similar, they are used to achieve very different results. The  differences between male and female facial anatomy must also be considered.  The facial bone structure is generally much thicker in men than women, and men have stronger, thicker cartilage and bone as well as much thicker nasal skin. Skin thickness will also change how it drapes over any nasal structure, as well as the overall refinement of the nose, as thicker skin does not allow for the sharp angles and planes that thinner skin can provide. This will change a good rhinoplasty surgeon’s approach to a male rhinoplasty.

The differences between male and female rhinoplasties can be difficult for an inexperienced rhinoplasty surgeon to navigate. That is why it is crucial to seek out an experienced male rhinoplasty surgeon for a consultation. During the consultation, the surgeon should work with you to help define the goals of your rhinoplasty, as well as explain what is or isn’t possible. A consultation with a good surgeon should be a collaborative experience in clarifying objectives, agreeing on expectations, and a thorough explanation of the surgical approach to achieve those objectives.

If you are considering a male rhinoplasty and would like a consultation, please contact Dr. Julian De Silva for a thorough consultation. Dr. De Silva is a facial plastic surgery specialist, and has extensive experience with both male and female rhinoplasties.