Dorsal Hump Nose Surgery

Nasal hump surgery is an aesthetic and functional surgical procedure that aims to correct bone and cartilage protrusions that cause a humped appearance in the nasal profile. This procedure generally plays a decisive role in the profile appearance, directly affecting facial proportions, and the hump that forms in this area can be a source of aesthetic dissatisfaction for many people. However, a nasal hump not only affects external appearance but can also affect internal nasal structures in some cases, leading to breathing problems. Therefore, nasal hump surgery should be considered not only as an aesthetic intervention but also as a comprehensive surgical approach aimed at creating a natural nasal profile that is in harmony with the face and resolving any functional problems that may exist. If you would like to learn more about this comprehensive approach, please take a look at our content. We wish you good health and happy reading.

What is a Dorsal Hump?

A dorsal hump, medically referred to as a dorsal hump, is a condition in which bone and/or cartilage tissue protrudes significantly from the normal anatomical line on the bridge of the nose. This structure creates an arched or protruding appearance in the profile of the nose and often causes aesthetic concerns. Therefore, a dorsal hump may develop due to congenital genetic predisposition, or it may occur after nose trauma, fractures, or previous nose surgeries.

This condition of the nasal bridge varies from person to person. This is because in some individuals it consists mainly of bone tissue, while in others cartilage tissue is predominant, or both structures are present together. Thus, the hump is not only an aesthetic problem but may also be associated with breathing problems in some patients by affecting the internal anatomy of the nose. At the same time, during the evaluation process, the functional structures can be considered along with the appearance of the nasal bridge.

Causes of a Dorsal Hump

There are several main causes of a hunched back. These causes vary from person to person and may not be equally present in everyone. In this context, the symptoms of a hunched back are as follows:

• The most common cause is the pronounced development of bone and cartilage tissue on the bridge of the nose due to the family’s nasal structure.
• Disproportionate growth of the nasal bones and cartilage during development can lead to the formation of a hump during childhood and adolescence.
• Malunion of bones after trauma, falls, or sports injuries can cause protrusions on the nasal bridge.
• Irregularities in bone lines may develop after untreated or inadequately treated nasal fractures.
• Inadequate filing, asymmetric bone cuts, or tissue changes related to the healing process can lead to secondary hump formation.
• Excessive growth of the upper lateral cartilages, in particular, can increase the arch appearance of the nasal bridge.
• Structural incompatibilities in this area can cause a noticeable protrusion on the nasal bridge.
• Callus tissue formed during bone healing after surgery or trauma can create a temporary or permanent arch sensation.

Symptoms of Dorsal Humps

There are certain symptoms associated with a hump on the bridge of the nose. These symptoms can vary from person to person. The symptoms in question are as follows:

• When viewed from the side, a noticeable protrusion or curvature is visible on the bridge of the nose.
• The protrusion on the bridge of the nose may cause an unbalanced profile perception in the forehead-nose-chin line.
• A hard structure originating from bone or cartilage may be felt upon touch.
• The nasal bridge is particularly noticeable in side profile photographs.
• The bridge may cause the tip of the nose to appear lower or further back than it actually is.
• In some patients, the bridge line may appear rough or wavy.
• Dissatisfaction with the profile of the nose and a feeling of discomfort related to self-confidence may be observed.
• If there is narrowness in the internal nasal structures along with the bridge, difficulty breathing may accompany it.
• Resorting to contour makeup to conceal the nasal bridge is common.

Who Is A Suitable Candidate For Dorsal Hump Surgery?

• Individuals with a prominent hump on the bridge of their nose
• Those who desire a nose profile more in harmony with their facial proportions
• Individuals whose overall health is suitable for surgery
• Individuals whose nasal development is complete
• Those with realistic expectations
• Individuals experiencing breathing difficulties due to the hump
• Individuals who developed a hump following a nasal injury
• Patients requiring revision surgery
• Individuals who are psychologically prepared for surgery

Do Dorsal Humps Have an Impact on Breathing?

Dorsal humps are mostly considered an aesthetic problem, but in some patients they can indirectly or directly affect respiratory function. The bony and cartilaginous protrusion on the bridge of the nose does not impair breathing on its own; however, this structure is often seen in conjunction with anatomical problems inside the nose. The nasal airway may narrow, particularly if there is simultaneous septal deviation, internal nasal stenosis, or malposition of the upper lateral cartilages. This condition can lead to complaints such as nasal congestion, mouth breathing, nighttime snoring, and difficulty breathing during exercise. Furthermore, structural imbalances on the nasal bridge can negatively affect the internal nasal valve angle, reducing the efficiency of airflow. Therefore, when evaluating a nasal hump, not only the external appearance but also the internal nasal functions should be considered; if necessary, aesthetic surgery should be planned in the same session with functional corrections.

How Is Dorsal Hump Surgery Performed?

A hump reduction surgery is part of a rhinoplasty procedure that aims to surgically correct a protrusion formed by bone and/or cartilage tissue on the bridge of the nose. Therefore, before the surgery, the patient’s facial proportions, nasal skin thickness, and internal nasal structures are evaluated in detail; both aesthetic expectations and respiratory functions are taken into consideration. The surgical procedure can be performed using open or closed rhinoplasty techniques.

During the surgery, excess bone and cartilage on the bridge of the nose is removed by rasping or controlled incisions, and the bridge of the nose is reshaped. In cases where it is deemed necessary, osteotomy may be performed to narrow the nasal bones and create a natural profile. Today, some surgeons use piezo (ultrasonic) technology, which allows for more precise and controlled shaping of bone tissue. At the end of the surgery, the bridge of the nose is adjusted to achieve a natural line that is in harmony with the face; any septal deviation or internal nasal narrowing is also corrected during the same session, aiming for both aesthetic and functional results.

What Are the Benefits of Dorsal Hump Nose Surgery?

Nasal hump surgery offers a number of benefits. These benefits contribute to both the mental and physical well-being of the individual. These benefits are as follows:

• Correcting the bump on the bridge of the nose creates a more harmonious appearance of the forehead-nose-chin line.
• At the same time, the bridge of the nose becomes more natural and proportionate to the overall expression of the face.
• Without completely flattening the nose, an aesthetically pleasing bridge line that suits the facial structure is achieved.
• This greatly contributes to reducing aesthetic concerns arising from the appearance of the nose.
• If there is a deviated septum or internal nasal narrowing along with the hump, it can be corrected during the same surgery to ease breathing.
• Additionally, a rough appearance caused by bone and cartilage can be eliminated.
• The nose is perfectly shaped in harmony with the other anatomical structures of the face.

Things to Consider Before Nasal Hump Surgery

There are important points to consider before rhinoplasty surgery. These points ensure the surgery is performed more effectively. In this context, the following are the key considerations before rhinoplasty surgery:

• Facial proportions, nasal bridge structure, skin thickness, and internal nasal anatomy should be evaluated under the supervision of a doctor.
• Issues such as septal deviation, turbinate hypertrophy, or internal nasal narrowing should be identified by a doctor.
• Anticoagulants, herbal supplements, and regularly used medications should be known to the surgeon.
• Smoking must be stopped at least 2–3 weeks before surgery. This will positively affect the healing process.
• The necessary tests to assess general health should be completed by the doctor.
• The recovery period, splint use, and return to daily life should be planned in advance.

Things to Consider After Nasal Hump Surgery

Just as there are points to consider before rhinoplasty, there are also points to consider after rhinoplasty. Paying attention to these points ensures a faster recovery. In this context, here are the things you should pay attention to after rhinoplasty:

• The nasal splint and bandages must not be removed under any circumstances during the period specified by the doctor.
• Activities that could cause impact to the nose must be avoided, especially during the first 6–8 weeks.
• The head must be kept elevated during the first few days. This may reduce swelling and bruising.
• In addition, activities that increase pressure inside the nose must be avoided during the first few weeks.
• Painkillers, antibiotics, and sprays should be used as recommended.
• In the first few days, cold compresses applied without direct contact with the nose may reduce swelling.
• Smoking and alcohol should be avoided for at least a few weeks as they can negatively affect the healing process.
• Even after the splint is removed, glasses that put pressure on the nasal bones should be avoided for a while.
• Intense physical activity should not be performed until the doctor gives permission.
• Regular doctor check-ups should not be neglected for the healing process to progress healthily.

Dorsal Hump Surgery and Recovery

The surgery and recovery process for a hump on the back progresses depending on both the surgical technique and the patient’s individual healing capacity. The surgery aims to correct the protrusion formed by bone and/or cartilage tissue on the bridge of the nose in a controlled manner and is often performed as part of a rhinoplasty procedure. For this reason, a splint is placed on the nose after the procedure, and this splint is usually worn for 7–10 days. Swelling and bruising are normal in the first few days; these symptoms usually begin to subside significantly from the second week onwards. During the healing process, stiffness, sensitivity, and a feeling of fullness may occur on the bridge of the nose; this is due to the healing of bone and cartilage tissues and will subside over time. While returning to daily life is usually possible within 1–2 weeks, it may take 6–12 months for the bridge of the nose to settle completely and for the final aesthetic result to appear. During this process, following the doctor’s recommendations, protecting the nose from impact, and not neglecting regular check-ups play an important role in achieving a successful result, both aesthetically and functionally.

How Much Does Dorsal Hump Removal Cost?

The cost of a hump removal surgery varies greatly and cannot be expressed as a single figure; it is determined based on many factors. Therefore, the main factors affecting the price of the surgery include the surgeon’s experience and expertise, the hospital or clinic where the surgery will be performed, the surgical technique used (open/closed rhinoplasty, piezo technology), and whether the surgery is planned to be purely aesthetic or to include functional corrections. Additionally, correcting problems such as septal deviation or internal nasal narrowing accompanying the hump during the same session can increase the cost. Furthermore, the type of anesthesia, length of hospital stay, post-operative check-ups, and medical supplies used also play a decisive role in the total cost. However, the average dorsal hump cost is $6,000-$8,000. Therefore, the most accurate price information is determined after a detailed examination and personalized surgical planning.

If you would like to obtain an expert opinion on dorsal hump, you can contact FaceAesthetics and its team, specialists in rhinoplasty in Turkey.