Ethnic Rhinoplasty in Zurich, Switzerland

We specialize in rhinoplasty in Zurich, Switzerland. The goal is not a completely new nose, but a more harmonious and balanced version of your own.
Every nose job in Zurich is individually planned - designed to perfectly match your face and facial proportions.

What is ethnic rhinoplasty?

This is a surgical procedure performed to improve the shape or function of the nose while preserving facial features that are specific to a person's ethnic origin. Unlike classical rhinoplasty, ethnic rhinoplasty aims to provide a natural appearance that reflects the individual's cultural identity. Rather than completely changing the nasal structure of people from different ethnic backgrounds, it makes subtle adjustments that are compatible with their facial features.

What are 'race' and 'ethnicity' in ethnic rhinoplasty?

Race:

Human beings have certain distinctive physical characteristics (such as skin color, hair texture, and bone structure). It can often reflect geographical origins and phenotype.

Ethnicity:

A group of people who share a common culture, nationality, religion, art, music, traditions, and history. Ethnicity can encompass race but also depends on other characteristics such as migration patterns, social experiences, and environment. A particular ethnic group may include people with different racial characteristics; what brings them together is shared culture, nationality, etc.

Why are 'race' and 'ethnicity' important in ethnic rhinoplasty?

This distinction is important because it helps surgeons understand patients' aesthetic ideals and goals. Due to globalization and mixed marriages, 'pure races' do not exist, and patients are often 'mixed-race' individuals. Surgeons need to clearly define patients' aspirations and understanding of beauty.

Objectives of ethnic rhinoplasty according to nasal morphology:

While in the past the term 'ethnic rhinoplasty referred to 'any surgery performed on the nose of an ethnic person,' today it refers more to the concept of preserving certain ethnic characteristics when performing rhinoplasty. Ethnic rhinoplasty includes the understanding of preserving physical features that may be important to patients. Since the nose is at the center of the face, it is important for surgeons to be aware of different ethnic nose shapes to achieve an aesthetically pleasing nose.

Objectives of ethnic rhinoplasty:

Preserving ethnic identity and cultural characteristics

Ethnic rhinoplasty aims to make an aesthetic improvement by preserving or slightly modifying the nasal features of individuals of different ethnic origins (for example, African, Asian, Middle Eastern, Latino, or other ethnic groups), rather than completely changing these features. The aim is to achieve a natural appearance that is appropriate to one's ethnic identity, rather than creating a nose that looks artificial or 'foreign' on the face.

For individuals of African descent, features such as wide nostrils or a flat nasal bridge are not completely removed; instead, they are slightly molded to fit the face.

The bridge of the nose, which is usually flatter for individuals of Asian descent, can be slightly defined in accordance with facial proportions rather than an exaggerated elevation.

For Middle Eastern individuals, procedures such as softening the nasal bridge or thinning the tip of the nose are performed in accordance with ethnic aesthetics. This approach aims to eliminate aesthetic concerns while preserving the cultural identity and unique beauty of the individual. Thus, the person can feel more confident without being alienated from his/her ethnic origin.

Aesthetic improvement and facial harmony:

Ethnic rhinoplasty makes aesthetic changes to make the shape or size of the nose more harmonious to the face. However, these changes are customized according to the person's facial structure and ethnic characteristics, rather than conforming to a universal standard of beauty. The main aesthetic purposes are as follows:

Adjusting the size of the nose:

Making the nose proportionate to the face, for example, slightly reducing a very wide or large nose.

Nasal tip shaping:

Lifting, thinning, or making the tip of the nose more prominent.

Correction of the bridge of the nose:

Correction of a flat or arched nasal bridge in accordance with the face.

Providing symmetry:

Elimination of asymmetry or deformities in the nose.

Regulation of the nostrils:

Narrowing of wide nostrils in accordance with the face.

Solution of functional problems:

Ethnic rhinoplasty aims to correct not only aesthetic but also functional problems with the nose. This is especially important for individuals with breathing problems. Main functional aims:

Correction of deviated septum:

A curvature (deviation) of the nasal septum can make breathing difficult. Ethnic rhinoplasty can be combined with aesthetic changes while addressing this problem.

Nasal obstruction relief:

Structural problems within the nose (for example, nasal turbinate hypertrophy) are corrected, allowing for easier breathing.

Post-traumatic repair:

Nasal deformities caused by accident or injury can be corrected both functionally and aesthetically. Functional improvements improve the quality of life of the person, while a holistic result is achieved by combining with aesthetic changes.

Psychological and social comfort:

Ethnic rhinoplasty aims to increase self-confidence by eliminating dissatisfaction with the appearance of the nose. Individuals who are uncomfortable with the shape of their nose, especially depending on their ethnic origin, can feel better both physically and psychologically with this procedure. The surgeon aims for a natural and satisfying result, taking into account the patient's expectations and cultural sensitivities.

Types of ethnic rhinoplasty:

Anatomical classification:

Noses are anatomically classified into three main groups for global identification of different nasal phenotypes.

Leptorrhine noses (thin and long noses):

This nose type is usually found in patients of Caucasian (European) and Mediterranean descent.
The skin-soft tissue envelope is thin to normal thickness.
The nasal bones are normal to long.
The dorsum of the nose is narrow and high, often with a dorsal hump.
The radix (nasal root) is high.
The tip of the nose is well projected and prominent.
The nasolabial angle (the angle between the nose and the lips) is usually wide.
The nostril shape is oval.
The alar width (width of the wings of the nose) is normal to narrow.
The underlying bone and cartilage structure is strong, and the septal cartilage is well developed.

Platyrrhine noses (Wide and flat noses):

This nose type is usually found in patients of African descent and some Asian groups.
The skin-soft tissue envelope is thick, and fatty and fibrous tissue is abundant.
The nasal bones are short and flat.
The dorsum of the nose is wide and flat, and the radix is low.
Nasal tip projection is weak and unsupported.
Nasolabial is narrower.
The nostrils are horizontally shaped and tend to open outwards.
Alar width is usually wide.
Bone and cartilage structure is weak, the nasal septum may be thin and weak.

Mesorrhine noses (middle noses):

This type of nose is considered a transitional point between Platyrrhine and Leptorrhine noses and is usually seen in patients of Latin origin (such as Mestizo) and Asian patients.

The skin-soft tissue envelope is medium to thick and fatty.
The nasal bones are normal to short.
The dorsum of the nose is wide and low, sometimes with a small hump.
The radix is normal to low.
Nasal tip projection is weak and unsupported.
Nasolabial angle is normal to acute.
The nostrils are normal to horizontal in shape.
Alar width is normal to wide.
Bone and cartilage structure is stronger than in Platyrrhine noses but weaker than in Leptorrhine noses; septum is usually small and thin

Nasal features and types of rhinoplasty according to ethnic groups:

African and African-American noses:

African and African-American nasal structures:

Very thick, oily skin with abundant fibrous-oily texture
Thin and weak cartilages, little structural support
Short, thick, and narrow nasal bones
Wide, low and concave nasal dorsum.
Wide alar base and outward angulation of the nasal wings.
Bulbous nasal tip with low projection, broad and bulbous, often drooping and indistinct.
Usually under-rotated nasal tip
Acute nasolabial angle (91° in women, 84° in men)
Short and retracted columella.
Nostrils may be round to flat and horizontally oriented

African American rhinoplasty:

Shaping of the bridge of the nose (dorsal augmentation or reduction): When necessary, cartilage grafts or implants can be used to increase the bridge height. In some cases, bone and cartilage are sculpted to thin or straighten the bridge of the nose.

Thinning and defining the tip of the nose: The tip of the nose may be less prominent due to thick skin and soft tissues. The surgeon provides support with cartilage grafts to make the tip of the nose more prominent and elegant. Cartilage manipulation is performed to lift or reshape the tip of the nose.

Narrowing of the nostrils (Alar base reduction): An alar base resection can be performed to narrow wide nostrils. This procedure reduces the size of the nostrils while maintaining a natural appearance.

Cartilage grafting: The nasal skin is usually thicker in African American individuals, so grafts such as ear or rib cartilage can be used to support the nasal structure. These grafts are used to support the tip of the nose or strengthen the bridge.

Features of Asian and East Asian noses:

Thick and abundant fibrous-oily textured skin
Short, small, and broad nasal bones; low or depressed radix
Short nasal length.
Broad and low nasal dorsum, generally flat projection
Under-rotated nasal tip with low and broad projection
Weak, thin, or small septal cartilage; weak inferior lateral cartilages
Short and retracted columella, acute columella-labial angle
Horizontal nostril shape, increased flaring of the nasal wings, wide nostril openings
Japanese noses tend to be narrower and higher dorsally than classic Asian noses.
East Asian/Indian noses may have a pronounced dorsal hump and downward sloping nostrils

Asian rhinoplasty:

Nasal Bridge Elevation (Dorsal Augmentation): Cartilage grafts (ear or rib cartilage) or synthetic implants such as silicone can be used to raise the bridge of the nose. The implants are carefully shaped and placed to provide a natural appearance.

Shaping and defining the tip of the nose: The surgeon provides support with cartilage grafts to make the tip of the nose thinner and more defined. Cartilage manipulation is performed to lift or reshape the tip of the nose.

Narrowing of the nostrils (alar base reduction): Alar base resection can be performed to make wide nostrils more proportionate. This procedure reduces the size of the nostrils while maintaining a harmonious appearance with the face.

Cartilage grafting: Septal, ear or rib cartilage is often used to strengthen and support the nasal structure. These grafts are important for shaping the tip of the nose or the bridge. Due to the thick skin structure, grafting is a frequently used technique in Asian rhinoplasty.

Latin and Hispanic noses:

Features of Latin and Hispanic noses:

Medium to thick, oily skin. Small, short, broad nasal bones, low or depressed radix. Normal nasal length
Wide nasal dorsum, often with a small hump. projection low, under-rotated, and indistinct nasal tip.
Normal to acute nasolabial angle.
Short and weak caudal septum and alar cartilages
Short columella.
Wide alar base with increased flaring of the nasal wings.
Usually characterized by a trapezoidal face shape with prominent cheekbones and jaw angle, large facial and chin diameters, prominent dental arches, a short retracted chin, and a tendency to under-eye hollows.
The nose is externally small, broad at the base and slightly projecting at the tip.
Castilian: Normal radix height, high nasal bridge, broad nasal tip with normal projection.
Mexican-American: Low radix, normal nasal bridge, drooping nasal tip.
Mestizo: Wide base, thick skin, very wide nasal tip.
Creole: Wide nasal dorsum and base, hollow nasal tip, low radix.

Latin and Hispanic rhinoplasty:

Shaping the bridge of the nose (dorsal modification): To correct an arched nasal bridge, the bone and cartilage are filed or reshaped, and for a flat bridge, cartilage grafts or implants may be used to increase the height.

Thinning and defining the tip of the nose: The surgeon provides support with cartilage grafts to make the tip of the nose more prominent and elegant. Cartilage manipulation is performed to lift or reshape the tip of the nose.

Cartilage grafting: Septal, ear or rarely rib cartilage is used to support and shape the nasal structure. These grafts are important for strengthening the tip of the nose or supporting the bridge. In patients with thick skin, grafting is often used to achieve more pronounced results.

Middle Eastern noses:

Middle Eastern nose features:

Thick, oily skin.
Broad and large nasal bones.
Long nasal length
Wide, asymmetrical, highly arched nasal dorsum with a pronounced hump.
High and over-projected radix. Weak lower lateral cartilages with under-projected and under-rotated, drooping, and under-projected nasal tip.
Acute nasolabial angle.
Drooping columella.
Asymmetric nostril shape, increased alar flaring.
Generally asymmetrical and deviated nasal structure.

Middle Eastern rhinoplasty:

Thinning of the dorsum of the nose: A more balanced profile is achieved by thinning this area.

Shaping the tip of the nose: If the tip of the nose is wide or low, it is made more prominent and raised by supporting it with cartilage sutures or grafts.

Narrowing the nostrils: If there are wide nostrils, a more proportional appearance is achieved by narrowing the alar base (the base of the wings of the nose).

Nasal arch correction: In some patients, bone and cartilage are filed to create a straighter line to correct the nasal arch.

How is ethnic rhinoplasty performed?

Examination and planning:

The surgeon conducts a detailed interview with the patient. The patient's aesthetic (e.g., lifting the tip of the nose, correcting the bridge of the nose) and functional (e.g., solving breathing problems) goals are determined.

The patient's ethnicity and facial anatomy (skin thickness, nasal bone, and cartilage structure) are assessed.

Facial proportions are analyzed; possible outcomes are shown to the patient, usually using 3D imaging or computer simulations.

Cultural sensitivities are taken into consideration. The surgeon prepares a plan in accordance with the patient's desire to preserve their ethnic identity.

The patient's health history (allergies, chronic diseases, previous nose surgeries) and lifestyle are evaluated.

A personalized surgical plan is created. An open or closed rhinoplasty technique is selected, and the details of the procedure (for example, whether cartilage grafting is required) are determined.

Preoperative preparation:

Blood tests, allergy checks, and, if necessary, nasal imaging (e.g., CT scan for deviated septum) are performed.

The patient is instructed not to smoke/drink alcohol for 1-2 weeks before surgery, to avoid blood thinners (e.g., aspirin), and to fast on the day of surgery.

Surgical procedure

Surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, and the patient is completely asleep. In simple cases, local anesthesia may be preferred.

Making the incision:

Open rhinoplasty: A small incision is made on the columella (the skin separating the nasal septum) between the nostrils. This gives the surgeon more access to the nasal structure and is suitable for complex changes.

Closed rhinoplasty: Incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no scars on the outside. It is less invasive and is usually preferred for simpler adjustments.

Shaping the structure of the nose:

Bone and cartilage arrangement: The bones or cartilages of the nose are cut, filed, or repositioned according to the desired shape.

Cartilage grafts: In some ethnic groups, cartilage grafts from the ear or rib may be used to raise the bridge of the nose or support the tip of the nose.

Skin and soft tissue adjustment: In patients with thick skin, the tissues under the skin are carefully sculpted. Since skin thickness can affect the result, the surgeon uses appropriate techniques.

Functional corrections: If there are breathing problems, such as a deviated septum, the nasal septum is corrected or the nasal concha (internal nasal structures) are reduced.

Adaptation to ethnic characteristics: The surgeon makes fine adjustments to ensure an ethnically appropriate appearance.

Incision closure: In open rhinoplasty, the external incision is closed with fine sutures. In closed rhinoplasty, the sutures remain inside the nose, and self-dissolving threads are usually used.

Postoperative healing process and things to be considered:

First 24-48 hours:

A splint or cast is placed over the nose, which protects and supports the shape of the nose.

Silicone splints may be placed in the nostrils (common in procedures to correct breathing problems).

The patient should lie with their head elevated. This reduces swelling and bruising.

Mild pain, swelling, and bruising are normal; painkillers prescribed by the doctor are used.

First week:

Silicone nasal splints and cast are usually removed in 4 to 10 days.

The patient should avoid heavy physical activities, blows to the nose, and exposure to sunlight.

Sprays or solutions recommended by the doctor are used to clean the nose.

First 1-3 months:

Swelling and bruising are greatly reduced, but the shape of the nose is not fully established.

The patient should avoid wearing glasses (which can put pressure on the bridge of the nose) and rubbing the nose.

6 months-1 year:

The final nose shape emerges. Full recovery may take longer in patients with thicker skin (for example, in African or some Middle Eastern individuals).

Whether ethnic features are preserved and harmony with the face becomes clear during this period.

The nose reaches the desired form both aesthetically and functionally. A natural and ethnic appearance is achieved.

Control and follow-up

Regular control appointments (usually after 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 1 year) are made after surgery.

The surgeon evaluates the shape of the nose, breathing function, and healing of the sutures.

In rare cases, minor revision procedures may be required (for example, to correct asymmetry).

The patient makes a full recovery under the guidance of the surgeon, and the desired results are checked.

Suitable and unsuitable candidates for ethnic rhinoplasty

Suitable candidates:

Those who wish to elevate the dorsum of the nose or create a higher nasal bridge.
Those who wish to make the tip of the nose more prominent or increase projection
Those who wish to soften or mask a small dorsal hump.
Those who want to correct slight asymmetries in the nose.
Patients looking for temporary results or who are reluctant to undergo surgery.

Unsuitable/limited candidates:

Those with unrealistic expectations,
Those who cannot adapt to healing,
Those who are psychologically unprepared,
Those with uncontrolled systemic disease,
Adolescents with incomplete nasal development.

Are there risks associated with ethnic rhinoplasty?

Yes, ethnic rhinoplasty carries some risks, like other types of rhinoplasty. However, these risks may vary depending on the surgeon's experience, the patient's anatomy, and the technique used. Potential risks and complications:

In patients with thick skin, swelling may last longer, especially edema at the tip of the nose, sometimes not completely resolving for up to 1 year.

Skin irregularity or asymmetry may occur (especially if excess fatty tissue has been removed).
The risk of scarring (scar tissue) may be more pronounced in patients with darker skin.
If cartilage grafts (septum, ear, rib cartilage) are used, they may bend or shift over time.
If excessive narrowing is performed, the tip of the nose may harden or lose its natural flexibility.
If nostril (nostril) narrowing is excessive, breathing difficulties may occur.
Damage to intranasal structures (valves, septum) can cause chronic congestion.
Dark-skinned patients may experience hyperpigmentation (darkening of color in the surgical area).

Are the effects of ethnic rhinoplasty permanent?

The permanence of ethnic rhinoplasty depends on the surgical technique, the patient's skin structure, and the healing process. In general, the results are permanent, but some factors can lead to changes over time.

Permanent effects (Changes that usually last a lifetime)

Changes in cartilage and bone structure: Procedures such as bone filing or hump correction on the back of the nose are permanent. Cartilage grafts (septum, ear, rib) are not absorbed by the body and remain stable in the long term.

Nasal tip reshaping: Cartilage structures fixed with sutures usually last a lifetime, but factors such as aging or trauma can cause minimal changes.

Factors that may change slightly over time:

Skin thickness and swelling: In patients with thick skin, nasal tip swelling may take 1-2 years to completely resolve. Sagging skin with aging may slightly alter the shape of the nose.

Minimal displacement of grafts: Rarely cartilage grafts may be slightly displaced (especially if trauma occurs).

Aging and gravity effect: After 10-20 years, the tip of the nose may show very slight sagging, but this is the natural aging process.

F.A.Q:

How long does ethnic rhinoplasty surgery take?

The procedure takes 1-3 hours depending on its complexity.

How long is the ethnic rhinoplasty recovery time?

Return to daily life: 2-3 weeks.

Social visibility:largely back to normal in 1 month.

Final result: 12-18 months (in patients with thick skin).

Are there any age restrictions for ethnic rhinoplasty?

The ideal age range and limitations for ethnic rhinoplasty are related to the completion of nasal development.

Lower age limit: "Post-puberty" (usually 16-18 years and older):

Nasal development is completed around 15-16 years for girls and 16-18 years for boys.

Minimum age for surgery: 15-16 years for girls and 17-18 years for boys (to stabilize the bone and cartilage structure).

It can be performed at an earlier age in cases of severe respiratory problems or congenital deformities.

Upper age limit: "Determined by health status":

Surgery risks increase in patients aged 70 years and older but can be performed if the general health status is appropriate.

Cardiovascular diseases, uncontrolled diabetes, or use of blood thinners may pose a risk.

As skin elasticity decreases in elderly patients, the healing process may be prolonged.

Optimal age range for ethnic rhinoplasty:

20-40 years: Most preferred group (fast healing, high skin elasticity).

40-60 years: More support graft may be required (cartilage weakens with aging).

Can pregnant or nursing women have ethnic rhinoplasty?

Pregnant women: Surgery is not recommended (hormonal changes increase swelling).

Nursing: Doctor's approval is required for anesthesia medication.

Does ethnic rhinoplasty change the ethnic facial structure?

No, the ethnic character of the face is not altered; only proportional improvements are made.