Refining the tip of your nose can make a world of difference. Tip rhinoplasty, also known as tip plasty, focuses on reshaping the nasal tip to address bulbous contours, asymmetry, or drooping. At Maan Plastic Surgery, our goal is to achieve subtle, natural-looking enhancements that bring your features into better balance.
Refine the nasal tip for optimal balance
Tip rhinoplasty, or tip plasty, is a nasal surgery that focuses exclusively on reshaping the lower third of the nose, specifically the tip. It’s meant for patients who are generally happy with their nasal bridge but want to address concerns like a bulbous tip, drooping, asymmetry, or lack of definition. Unlike full rhinoplasty, this procedure targets the cartilage and soft tissue at the tip without altering the nasal bones, often resulting in a shorter recovery. The goal is to create natural refinement that complements your overall facial structure.
Tip rhinoplasty corrects:
- Bulbous or rounded nasal tip
- Drooping nasal tip
- Asymmetrical tip shape
- Overprojected or underprojected tip
- Wide or flared nostrils
- Hook-like nasal tip
- Hanging columella
- Poor nasal tip definition
Candidates for tip rhinoplasty:
- Are bothered by the shape or projection of their nasal tip
- Have a bulbous, drooping, or asymmetrical tip
- Are generally satisfied with their nasal bridge
- Do not require correction of internal nasal structures
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic expectations for subtle changes
- Are non-smokers or willing to stop before and after surgery
- Are seeking cosmetic refinement rather than functional nasal correction
Tip rhinoplasty vs. full rhinoplasty
Tip rhinoplasty, or tip plasty, targets only the nasal tip, refining its shape, size, or projection without altering the nasal bridge. It’s suitable for patients who are happy with the upper portion of their nose but want to correct a bulbous, drooping, or asymmetrical tip.
In contrast, full rhinoplasty addresses the entire nasal structure, including dorsal hump removal, nose narrowing surgery, and functional corrections. If your concerns involve both the tip and bridge, a full rhinoplasty may be appropriate. Dr. Maan can help determine the right approach.
Your Tip Rhinoplasty Session
During your nose narrowing surgery, Dr. Maan will focus exclusively on the lower third of your nose: the tip. Depending on your anatomy and goals, he may use an open or closed technique. The open approach involves a small incision across the columella (the strip of skin between your nostrils), giving Dr. Maan greater access and visibility for precise cartilage reshaping. In a closed approach, all incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no external incision.
Once the nasal tip is exposed, Dr. Maan carefully reshapes and refines the cartilage to improve projection, reduce bulkiness, or enhance symmetry. In some cases, he may use cartilage grafts from your own nose, ear, or rib to add structure or support. The entire procedure takes one to two hours, and you’ll go home the same day with detailed instructions for a smooth recovery.
Your journey to recovery: side effects & downtime
After your tip rhinoplasty, it’s normal to experience swelling, mild bruising, nasal congestion, and tenderness around the nose. Because the procedure is limited to the tip, most patients find the recovery period shorter and more comfortable than a full rhinoplasty. You’ll likely wear a small external splint or dressing for support during the initial healing phase.
Expect to take about one week off from work or social activities. Most swelling and bruising subside within 7 to 10 days, though subtle changes and refinement will continue over the next few months. You’ll return to Maan Plastic Surgery for follow-up visits so Dr. Maan can monitor your healing and ensure your results are progressing as expected. It’s important to avoid strenuous activity, blowing your nose, or wearing glasses on the bridge until cleared.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Maan
Dr. Maan is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with advanced fellowship training in facial aesthetics, including deep experience performing tip rhinoplasty and tip plasty procedures. He brings both technical precision and artistic vision to every case. Whether you’re concerned about a bulbous tip, drooping, or nasal symmetry, Dr. Maan will provide a thoughtful, personalized nose narrowing surgery to help you reclaim optimal balance. Schedule your consultation for tip plasty or dorsal hump removal today.
