Ethnic rhinoplasty is a customised surgical procedure designed to enhance the nasal features while honouring the unique cultural and aesthetic heritage of individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
Ethnic rhinoplasty, also known as an ethnic nose job, involves performing rhinoplasty surgery on people of non-Caucasian backgrounds. As the UK becomes increasingly diverse and multicultural, many patients do not have the typical features of a Caucasian nose. Ethnic nose reshaping surgery combines tried and tested rhinoplasty techniques with specialist surgical methods designed to achieve aesthetically pleasing results for people from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds.
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Rhinoplasty surgery for non-Caucasian patients can involve a significant degree of complexity as the anatomy of the ethnic nose often differs significantly from Caucasian or European noses. Traditionally most rhinoplasty teaching and training has been focused on improving the appearance of the Caucasian nose. It is important to appreciate that rhinoplasty surgery must take into account the unique features of the ethnic nose. Ethnic rhinoplasty is designed to reshape the nose to achieve optimal aesthetic and functional results whilst preserving the anatomical features of the nose of a patient’s ethnic background.
Most types of surgical rhinoplasty focus on achieving a better-defined nose with increased refinement. Achieving aesthetically appealing results whilst preserving nasal function is key with every nose surgery. Ethnic rhinoplasty takes into account the fact that not every patient seeks to achieve a Caucasian-looking nose. Instead, the goal is to attain a more proportionate and balanced nose which is sympathetic to a patient’s ethnic background.
All types of rhinoplasty surgery, including an ethnic nose job, focus on achieving the best results regardless of ethnic background. Every surgical plan must be customised to the needs of the individual patient. As the science of rhinoplasty surgery continues to evolve, plastic surgeons now have the advanced tools to provide meticulous surgery and attentive aftercare to treat all types of ethnic noses.
As the UK becomes increasingly diverse with people from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds, nose reshaping surgery has evolved to address features of the ethnic nose that are often not part of the standard technique for Caucasian rhinoplasty.
Ethnic rhinoplasty is a specialised branch of nasal surgery that emphasises maintaining and respecting a patient’s cultural and ethnic identity while enhancing the appearance of the nose. This type of rhinoplasty acknowledges that individuals from different ethnic backgrounds possess distinct facial bone structures, skin types, and nasal features. Consequently, achieving a natural and harmonious result requires a nuanced understanding of these unique characteristics. Not all plastic surgeons are trained to handle the subtle variations inherent in diverse ethnicities, and without this expertise, there is a significant risk of altering the nose in a way that detracts from the person’s natural facial harmony.
Historically, the field of rhinoplasty often adopted a uniform approach, predominantly aiming to create a nose that conformed to Western European standards of beauty. This “one-size-fits-all” methodology frequently resulted in subpar outcomes for patients from non-European backgrounds. Individuals of various ethnicities who underwent such procedures sometimes ended up with unnatural-looking noses, noticeable scarring, and even functional issues like impaired breathing. These botched surgeries not only compromised the aesthetic appeal but also led to additional medical complications. As a result, many patients found themselves needing corrective surgeries, which imposed further financial burdens and extended periods of recovery.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of ethnic rhinoplasty. Modern techniques now focus on enhancing the nose’s appearance while preserving the distinct features that reflect a person’s heritage. Surgeons skilled in ethnic rhinoplasty work closely with patients to understand their specific cultural and aesthetic goals, ensuring that the results are both beautiful and true to their natural identity. This personalised approach helps prevent the loss of individuality and promotes greater satisfaction with the surgical outcomes.
Rhinoplasty remains one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries, and it’s easy to see why. The nose naturally draws attention as the most prominent feature of the face. Altering its shape or size can significantly enhance overall facial harmony, bringing different features into better balance and boosting an individual’s confidence in their everyday interactions.
When deciding between ethnic and traditional rhinoplasty, your ethnic background is crucial in determining which approach will yield the most satisfactory results. Traditional rhinoplasty is often well-suited for individuals of Western European or Caucasian heritage. This method typically focuses on refining the nose to align with certain aesthetic standards common in these populations, ensuring that the enhancements look natural and harmonious with the rest of the facial features.
However, ethnic rhinoplasty is usually the preferable option for those from African, Asian, Pakistani, Indian, or Middle Eastern backgrounds. This specialised procedure takes into account the unique structural and aesthetic characteristics associated with different ethnicities. Doing so ensures that any modifications maintain the distinctive aspects of the patient’s natural appearance. This approach enhances the nose’s appearance and preserves the individual’s cultural identity, ensuring that they still look authentically after the surgery.
As with other aspects of facial features, the size and shape of the nose differ significantly in the general population. The vast diversity of facial appearances across continents has provided scientists with a fertile study area for many years. Although genetic factors have contributed significantly to the evolution of human anatomical features, natural selection has played a direct role in determining several aspects of physical appearance. This includes the degree of skin pigmentation and the structure of the face, which has adapted to a particular environment.
Scientists have been fascinated by the shape of the nose for hundreds of years. People have different nasal anatomy depending on which part of the world they live in. Scientific curiosity has resulted in why this occurs. Often, genetics and environmental factors play a combined role in determining the nose’s appearance.
Published studies from around the world have demonstrated that the width of the nose is strongly linked with both temperature and humidity in the natural environment. People who live in warm and humid climates are more likely to have wider noses. Those who live in colder climates are more likely to have narrow noses. Although there are significant variations and specific exceptions to this rule, this is an area of ongoing research. The shape of the nose can be determined by factors other than climate. Here, we discuss the features of noses from a particular ethnic group.
Surgery on the Caucasian nose has traditionally been where surgeons have had the most experience. Although ethnic rhinoplasty differs from surgery on a European nose, it is useful to understand the characteristic features of European noses. Caucasian noses typically have a narrow nasal bridge. People in northern Europe often have noses with wide bases combined with lips that may appear protruded. In comparison, those from southern Europe often have noses that point upwards. European noses are generally known for having both longer and slightly wider noses. As globalisation has removed barriers to travel, it has become increasingly difficult to define the typical nose shape as mixed-race noses have become more prevalent in the general population.
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The Indian and Pakistani nose, like other ethnic nose types, has unique features that distinguish it from other nasal types. Here are some of the common features of the Indian and Pakistani nose:
The base of the Indian and Pakistani nose can be relatively broad, with flaring nostrils that extend beyond the alar crease.
The tip of the Indian and Pakistani nose is often rounded or bulbous, with relatively thick skin that can obscure the underlying cartilage structure.
The cartilage structure of the Indian and Pakistani noses can be weaker and less defined than that of other ethnic nose types, which can make it more challenging to achieve the desired nasal shape and structure.
Some Indian and Pakistani noses have a prominent hump on the bridge of the nose, which can be addressed with techniques such as cartilage grafting or osteotomy (breaking of the nasal bone).
The skin of the Indian and Pakistani nose is often thicker than that of other ethnic nose types, which can make it more challenging to achieve the definition and refinement of the nasal tip.
Every nose is unique, and these features can vary widely among individuals of Indian and Pakistani descent. A skilled and experienced surgeon will take into account the unique features of the patient’s nose and tailor the surgical approach accordingly to achieve the best possible results.
RELATED: Asian Rhinoplasty
The Asian nose shape describes those typically from the Far East or Central Asia. Compared with the typical Caucasian nose, Asians have broader and shorter noses that often have less projection or appear less protruded. The shape of the Asian nose will determine the objectives of the procedure. Those of a Caucasian background most commonly seek rhinoplasty surgery to reduce the nose size. In comparison, Asians prefer to augment the structure of the nose.
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The African nose is typically characterised by a wide nasal bridge, a low nasal bridge, and wide and flared nostrils. The nasal tip is often rounded, and the nasal base is broad. Additionally, the alar (or nostril) rims tend to be thick, and the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) is often thick and projected. These are general characteristics; not all African noses will have these features.
RELATED: Middle Eastern Rhinoplasty
A prominent dorsal hump on the nasal bridge most commonly defines the Middle Eastern nose. The nasal tip often appears broad and appears to be drooping. In many cases, those of Middle Eastern descent may have a similar nose shape to those of African backgrounds. Middle Eastern noses may also have a flashy and rounded tip, also known as a bulbous tip.
Ethnic rhinoplasty surgery for the Middle Eastern nose is designed to remove or reduce the dorsal hump and reduce the size of the nasal tip with its elevation.
If you would like to learn how an ethnic nose job can help you achieve a beautiful-looking nose with the preservation of the facial features that characterise your ethnic background, give us a call today to schedule an in-person consultation with a specialist ethnic rhinoplasty surgeon.
Ethnic rhinoplasty differs from Caucasian rhinoplasty in several ways. One of the main differences is that ethnic noses often have a thicker skin type, making it more challenging to achieve the desired shape and definition. Additionally, ethnic noses may have different underlying bone and cartilage structures, which can also affect the outcome of the surgery. Ethnic rhinoplasty requires a more cautious and individualised approach to ensure that the final result looks natural and preserves the patient’s ethnic identity.
Indian or Pakistani rhinoplasty, or South Asian rhinoplasty, is a specialised surgical procedure tailored to address the unique nasal features commonly found in individuals of Indian or Pakistani descent. This nose surgery focuses on enhancing the patient’s facial harmony and aesthetics while preserving their ethnic identity and distinctive facial features.
During an Indian or Pakistani rhinoplasty, the surgeon may concentrate on the following objectives:
Reducing or removing the nasal hump can create a smoother and more aesthetically pleasing nose profile, leading to improved facial harmony.
Elevating the nose tip can create a more refined and defined appearance, giving the patient a more aesthetically pleasing nose shape that suits their facial proportions.
By reshaping the nasal bones and cartilage, the surgeon can achieve a narrower nose that complements the patient’s other facial features and contributes to a balanced appearance.
An essential aspect of Indian or Pakistani rhinoplasty is maintaining the patient’s unique cultural characteristics while making the desired changes. A skilled surgeon will ensure that the outcome of the surgery respects the patient’s ethnic background and enhances their natural beauty.
Middle Eastern rhinoplasty, also known as Middle Eastern nose job or ethnic rhinoplasty, is a specialized surgical procedure tailored to address the unique nasal features commonly found in individuals of Middle Eastern descent. This nose surgery aims to enhance the patient’s facial harmony and aesthetics while preserving their ethnic identity and distinctive facial features.
During a Middle Eastern rhinoplasty, the surgeon may focus on the following objectives:
Reducing or removing the nasal hump can create a smoother and more aesthetically pleasing nose profile, leading to improved facial harmony.
By addressing any deviations or crookedness, the surgeon can achieve a straighter nose that complements the patient’s other facial features and contributes to a balanced appearance.
Elevating the nose tip can create a more refined and defined appearance, giving the patient a more aesthetically pleasing nose shape that suits their facial proportions.
A crucial aspect of Middle Eastern rhinoplasty is maintaining the patient’s unique cultural characteristics while making the desired changes. A skilled surgeon will ensure that the outcome of the surgery respects the patient’s ethnic background and enhances their natural beauty.
An African rhinoplasty addresses the unique features commonly found in African noses while preserving the patient’s ethnic identity. This procedure is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and goals, considering their facial proportions and desired aesthetic outcome. Some key objectives of an African rhinoplasty include:
Elevating the nasal bridge can create a more balanced profile and enhance overall facial harmony.
Improving the projection of the nose can create a more defined and prominent appearance, adding character to the patient’s face.
Reducing the width of the nostrils can result in a more refined and proportional nose shape that complements the patient’s other facial features.
Reshaping the nose tip can help achieve a more aesthetically pleasing and defined appearance, improving the overall contour of the nose.
It is crucial to maintain the distinctive features that define the patient’s ethnic background while making the desired improvements. An experienced surgeon understands the importance of preserving the patient’s cultural heritage and will approach the procedure with that in mind.
Asian rhinoplasty is a specialised nose surgery that addresses the unique features commonly found in Asian noses while preserving the patient’s ethnic identity. This procedure is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals, considering their facial proportions and desired aesthetic outcome. Some key objectives of an Asian rhinoplasty include:
Elevating the nasal bridge can create a more balanced profile and enhance the overall facial harmony, providing a more defined and prominent appearance.
By reducing the width of the nose, the surgeon can create a more refined and proportional nose shape that complements the patient’s other facial features.
Addressing nostril flaring can lead to a more aesthetically pleasing and harmonious appearance, improving the overall contour of the nose.
Asian noses often have weaker cartilage, which can result in a lack of support and structure. The surgeon can strengthen and support the nasal structures by using cartilage grafts, leading to a more defined and stable nose shape.
It is essential to maintain the distinctive features that define the patient’s ethnic background while making the desired improvements. An experienced surgeon understands the importance of preserving the patient’s cultural heritage and will approach the procedure with that in mind.
Rhinoplasty surgery was traditionally based on the features of the European nose. This is probably because most patients were originally from a Caucasian background. Rhinoplasty techniques, therefore, evolved to meet the needs of the Caucasian patient. This has now dramatically changed, and the expert rhinoplasty surgeon must now be equally familiar with ethnic nose job surgery customised to those from a wide range of different ethnic backgrounds. Ethnic rhinoplasty surgery has become increasingly available, and society has embraced surgery’s benefits to improve physical appearance. Having a nose job is no longer considered excessively vain, with increasing numbers of men and women choosing to have ethnic rhinoplasty surgery in London. In the UK, non-Caucasian patients form our largest group of rhinoplasty patients, which makes us one of the most experienced centres in London for ethnic nose job surgery. As the procedure’s popularity has increased, our expert surgeons continue refining their surgical knowledge and skills to ensure each patient achieves natural-looking results that are in harmony with their ethnicity.
As the differences in nose shapes become better understood, expert facial plastic surgeons continue to build their expertise with ethnic rhinoplasty. A significant challenge of any ethnic rhinoplasty procedure is to create an aesthetically appealing result without disturbing the intricate balance of facial features that characterise a patient from a particular ethnic background.
Ethnic rhinoplasty is designed to address the four main nose concerns, including:
Ethnic rhinoplasty addresses common issues affecting the ethnic nose, including a wide nasal base, white bridge, excessively large or poorly defined tip, short distance between upper lip and nose, droopy tip, enlarged nostrils, nasal asymmetry or a crooked nose. As with any type of rhinoplasty surgery, functional symptoms such as disordered breathing can be corrected as part of a combined ethnic septorhinoplasty procedure.
The shape of the nose and its relationship with the overall anatomy of the face is paramount for ethnic nose job Surgery. The nose is the most dominant part of the face, so it must still appear balanced with the overall facial features. This is why a highly skilled surgeon must undertake ethnic rhinoplasty to ensure that optimum results appear natural on a person from a particular ethnic background. Most surgeons would agree that face proportions are not the only benchmark of beauty. They can, however, be helpful when planning the procedure. Rhinoplasty surgical techniques will take into account facial proportions. Research studies have shown the aesthetic ideal to be an oval-shaped face with a 3:4 height-to-width ratio. Dividing the human face into horizontal thirds is customary, although these are rarely the same. In people from Caucasian backgrounds, the other side of the face is often larger than the middle third, although both areas are smaller than the lower third. In Asian people, the upper third is smaller than the middle third, which has equal dimensions to the lower third of the face. Some also subdivide the lower third of the face into three smaller areas which cover the chin and upper and lower lips.
The optimum size and shape of the nose should ideally appear in proportion with the other facial features, including the chin, lips, eyes, cheeks and forehead. Meticulous planning and preparation for ethnic rhinoplasty take these factors into account. Many patients often desire a look that does not look too Caucasian. Most Asian patients prefer to look Eurasian as opposed to Caucasian after ethnic rhinoplasty surgery. This helps to achieve natural-looking results that respect their ethnic background.
Ethnic rhinoplasty is designed to help people regain their self-confidence and improve their emotional well-being. When surgery is not planned appropriately so that existing ethnic facial features are not considered, the surgical result could be unsatisfactory. This is most common when an inexperienced surgeon fails to understand the particular goals of an ethnic nose job. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to ethnic rhinoplasty. Successful outcomes are more likely when your surgeon clearly understands what you are trying to achieve and has detailed knowledge of the anatomy of the ethnic nose and how to make it appear in proportion with the rest of the facial features.
In many ways, ethnic rhinoplasty uses the same principles as conventional rhinoplasty surgery. The procedure is most commonly carried out under general anaesthesia; the incisions are placed exactly as with Caucasian rhinoplasty. The incisions can be located either on the columella between the nostrils or entirely inside the nostrils, also known as closed or endonasal rhinoplasty. The precise technique chosen will depend on the outcomes of the clinical examination at your in-person consultation.
Compared with traditional rhinoplasty surgery, an ethnic rhinoplasty takes longer to perform, although the procedure outcomes are equally impressive. Most ethnic nose surgery procedures involve surgically narrowing the nostrils or increasing the projection of the nasal tip. Nasal tip enhancement often requires a structural graft to augment the news. This is most commonly when septal cartilage is removed during the procedure. Other areas include the ear or rib cartilage. Donor rib or synthetic substitutes can be used in certain cases.
The experience and skills of your nose surgeon determine ethnic rhinoplasty results. It is crucial to carry out detailed research to find the best surgeon. Call us today to find out why Centre for Surgery is the UK’s leading clinic for ethnic rhinoplasty. Not all surgeons are trained in ethnic nose surgery. Our highly skilled surgeons are familiar with the nuances of ethnic noses and know how to achieve natural-looking results. Skilful placement of incisions requires extensive experience. Accuracy and precision are fundamental to achieving the best results. An experienced surgeon will assess the thickness and quality of your skin when deciding where to position the incisions. This is a very important aspect as certain skin types, particularly darker-skinned people, could be more prone to developing excessive scarring than lighter skin types.
Ethnic nose surgery takes approximately 2 to 3 hours under general anaesthesia. If you have the closed technique, incisions are made within the nostrils to access targeted nose areas for surgical correction. The open rhinoplasty method involves an incision at the columella between the nostrils beneath the tip of the nose. The surgeon will then gently elevate the skin of the nose back to expose the underlying cartilage and bony framework. The surgeon will then expertly reshape and redefine the nose, which may require structural cartilage grafts to stabilise the nasal framework with surgical stitches. Immediately after the procedure, swelling is expected to be experienced, affecting the nose, cheeks, and lower eyelids. Bruising may also be present, particularly if the bones have had to be fractured to narrow the nasal bridge. All types of surgical rhinoplasty, whether for Caucasian or ethnic noses, involve a similar recovery period determined by the extent of surgical correction undertaken.
We recommend that patients take one week off work to allow localised bruising and initial swelling to settle. It is usual for crusting and scabs to develop during the first week, which should disappear ten days after the procedure. Rhinoplasty surgery is not typically associated with significant pain or discomfort. Patients may comfortably work from home after a few days if they can. You will be seen one week after your procedure to remove the nasal splint. Any nasal crusts will be gently suctioned, and the nose will be cleaned with sterile saline. Nasal packing is not routinely required after this procedure. You will be allowed to blow your nose after the first 24 hours, and there is no restriction on what you can and cannot eat and drink. You should avoid strenuous exercise, including going to the gym for six weeks after the surgery, to prevent prolonged swelling from occurring.
The recovery timeline after ethnic nose surgery can vary depending on the extent of the procedure, the surgical technique used, and the patient’s overall health. It’s essential to follow the post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure proper healing and minimize any risks and complications associated with the surgery. Here is a detailed recovery timeline with headings week by week:
During the first week after ethnic nose surgery, patients will likely experience pain, swelling, and bruising around the nose and eyes. The surgeon will usually prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort, and patients may be advised to keep their heads elevated to reduce swelling. It’s important to avoid strenuous activities, including bending over or lifting heavy objects, and to avoid blowing your nose during this time.
During the second week, patients may still experience some discomfort and swelling, but it should begin to subside. The surgeon may remove splints or dressings from the nose, and patients may be advised to gently clean the incision sites. It’s still essential to avoid strenuous activities or anything that could cause the nose to become injured or bumped.
By the third and fourth week, most patients can return to work or school, but they may still experience some swelling and bruising. The surgeon may advise patients to continue cleaning the incision sites and may recommend using saline solution to help flush out any debris. Patients should continue to avoid strenuous activities or contact sports and avoid blowing their noses.
By the fifth and sixth weeks, most patients should begin to see significant improvement in their appearance, and any remaining swelling should continue to subside. Patients may be advised to continue using saline solution to help flush out any debris, and the surgeon may recommend beginning light exercises such as walking or gentle yoga. However, avoiding strenuous activities or anything that could cause the nose to become injured or bumped is still essential.
By the seventh and eighth weeks, most patients should see significant improvements in their appearance, and any remaining swelling should continue to subside. The surgeon may clear patients for more strenuous activities, but it’s still essential to be cautious and avoid anything that could cause the nose to become injured or bumped.
By the ninth and tenth week, most patients should see significant improvements in their appearance, and any remaining swelling should be minimal. The surgeon may advise patients to continue to be cautious and avoid strenuous activities or anything that could cause the nose to become injured or bumped. Patients may also be advised to continue using saline solution to help flush out any debris.
Ethnic rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgery designed to reshape the nose while preserving its unique ethnic features. It can be combined with other procedures, depending on the individual case and the patient’s goals. Here are some procedures that can be combined with ethnic rhinoplasty:
This procedure involves enhancing the chin’s size and shape to balance out the facial features. Combining ethnic rhinoplasty with chin augmentation can provide more harmonious facial proportions.
This procedure is performed to improve the appearance of the eyelids. Combining it with ethnic rhinoplasty can create a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
A facelift is a surgical procedure that can address sagging skin and deep wrinkles on the face and neck. Ethnic rhinoplasty can be combined with a facelift for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
This procedure involves enhancing the size and shape of the lips. Combining it with ethnic rhinoplasty can create a more balanced and attractive facial profile.
Wrinkle-relaxing injections and fillers are non-surgical procedures that can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and add volume to the face. They can be combined with ethnic rhinoplasty for a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
The cost of ethnic rhinoplasty surgery will depend on several factors, including the extent of surgical correction required and the type of surgical approach. Once you have had an in-person consultation, you will receive a detailed quote from your dedicated patient coordinator. This will include the surgeons, anaesthetists, and facility fees. Postoperative aftercare visits are included in the cost of your surgery.
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When choosing the best surgeon for ethnic no surgery, you should never forget that the skills and experience of your surgeon have a more significant impact than ethnic rhinoplasty prices. Two-for-one offers, time-limited discounts and other enticing deals should be a red flag. In many cases, patients may be at higher risk of developing an unsatisfactory result. They may require revision surgery in the future, which ends up costing more with extra time off work and increased stress. It is better to have one surgical procedure carried out by an experienced and highly ethical surgeon committed to providing the highest standards of medical care before, during and after your procedure.
Whether or not ethnic rhinoplasty is worth it is a personal decision that depends on the individual’s goals and motivations for seeking the surgery. Some people may choose ethnic rhinoplasty to address functional issues such as difficulty breathing or to correct a deformity, while others may seek surgery for cosmetic reasons.
It is essential to have realistic expectations and understand that the results of ethnic rhinoplasty may not be the same as those achieved in a Caucasian nose, as the characteristics of ethnic noses are different. It’s also essential to research and choose a well-trained, experienced surgeon who has a good track record with ethnic rhinoplasty.
Centre for Surgery is the leading cosmetic surgery clinic in London and is home to some of the best ethnic nose surgeons in the UK. Our consultant plastic surgeons have a wealth of skills and experience and are dedicated to providing the highest standards of patient care.
Each ethnic nose surgery is customised to the needs of the individual patient, considering their specific ethnic background. We focus on producing natural-looking rhinoplasty results for men and women. Our surgeons have expertise in the full range of rhinoplasty techniques, including septorhinoplasty, septoplasty, open and closed rhinoplasty, ultrasonic rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty.
Our state-of-the-art Baker Street clinic in Marylebone is purpose-built for precision nose surgery undertaken as a day case, allowing you to go home the same day and recover in the comfort of your home.
Our friendly and knowledgeable team of Patient coordinators are happy to assist you with any questions you may have when considering ethnic rhinoplasty surgery. You can call us today on 020 7993 4849 or complete the contact form below to schedule an in-person consultation with an expert consultant plastic surgeon experienced in ethnic nose surgery.