Caucasian Rhinoplasty

Caucasian rhinoplasty refers to nose surgery planned around the features that are common in patients of European or Caucasian background. Every nose is different, but the concerns raised most often in this group include a dorsal hump, a bridge that is too high or wide, a drooping or bulbous tip, and a nose that looks too long for the face. The aim is a nose that suits your face and, where relevant, breathes well, rather than a single standard shape.

Dr Ricketts assesses your nose and your whole face together, because the nose works in balance with the forehead, the cheeks and the chin. She plans each operation around your anatomy, your skin and what you would like to change, and she is honest about what is realistically achievable for your nose.

Caucasian noses often have thinner skin, which shows the shape of the underlying framework more clearly. This allows fine, refined changes to be seen, but it also means that small irregularities can show through over time, so precise and stable work matters. Common goals include:

• Reducing or removing a dorsal hump so the bridge is straighter or even slightly ski-sloped in profile
• Narrowing a bridge that is too wide, usually with controlled bone cuts (osteotomies)
• Refining, rotating or supporting a tip that is drooping, bulbous or under-projected
• Improving the balance between the nose, the chin and the rest of the face
• Improving breathing where the septum or turbinates contribute to blockage

Dr Ricketts performs predominantly open structural rhinoplasty. A small incision is made across the columella, the strip of skin between the nostrils, so the skin can be lifted and the underlying framework seen directly. Rather than simply removing cartilage and bone to create shape, which can weaken the nose and lead to collapse or an operated look over time, she reshapes and supports the framework, often with cartilage grafts taken from the septum, ear or rib. Where breathing is affected, she addresses the septum and the turbinates at the same time.

Rhinoplasty may suit you if you would like to change the shape of your nose, if you have difficulty breathing, or both, and if you are in reasonable general health. Because the nose heals slowly and the final shape takes a long time to settle, the procedure suits people who can be patient with recovery and who have realistic expectations. It is best to have finished growing and to be at a stable point in your life. Dr Ricketts will be honest with you about what is achievable for your nose, your skin and the way you heal.

At your consultation, Dr Ricketts examines the outside and the inside of your nose, including how you breathe, and she assesses the bone, cartilage and skin along with the balance of your whole face. We discuss what is concerning you and what is realistic, and she explains the approach she would recommend, the recovery and the risks. Rhinoplasty is a considered decision, so she gives you written information and encourages you to take your time, ask questions and consider a second opinion.

Rhinoplasty is performed under general anaesthetic, usually as a day case or an overnight stay. On the day Dr Ricketts confirms the plan with you, and our team supports you through your admission, the operation and your recovery. A splint is applied to the outside of the nose, and you will go home with clear instructions and a support person.

A splint is usually worn on the outside of the nose for around a week, and there may be soft internal splints for support. In the first one to two weeks expect bruising and swelling around the eyes, which is most noticeable early and then fades. Your nose will be congested while the lining heals, and sleeping with your head elevated in the first week helps to minimise early swelling.

Many people return to desk work after about two weeks, once the splint is removed and the bruising has settled enough. Strenuous exercise and activities that risk a knock to the nose are restricted for four to six weeks. The nose continues to refine for a long time. Much of the swelling settles over the first few months, but subtle changes, particularly in the tip, can continue for a year or longer. Dr Ricketts will see you for reviews. Healing varies between individuals, and the outcomes one person experiences do not necessarily reflect what another will experience.

Dr Sophie Ricketts is a specialist plastic surgeon based in Richmond, Melbourne, with a focused practice in facial surgery, including Rhinoplasty procedures. She is a Fellow of the Australian and New Zealand College of Surgeons (FRACS) and a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), the peak professional bodies for plastic surgery in Australia. You can also find her on RealSelf. Each of these listings is maintained by independent organisations and provides patients with a straightforward way to check the qualifications, training, and scope of practice of the listed providers before booking a consultation.