What Is a Bulbous Nose? 

A bulbous nasal tip, often described as boxy or round, is typically caused by broad or convex cartilage in the lower part of the nose. While it may not affect breathing, it can make the tip appear poorly defined and detract from overall facial balance and harmony.

Key characteristics include: 

  • Rounded nasal tip that lacks definition 
  • Widened appearance from the front view 
  • Sometimes accompanied by thicker nasal skin 
  • Lack of definition between the tip-defining points 

Some causes include the following:

  • Genetics: Many individuals inherit broader nasal tip cartilage or thicker skin around the tip.
  • Cartilage Structure: Overly large or widely positioned alar cartilage can contribute to a boxy shape.
  • Previous Surgery: In some revision cases, suboptimal reshaping or scar tissue can create or worsen a bulbous tip.
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Dr. Deepak Dugar is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who is celebrated for his mastery of closed rhinoplasty and Scarless Nose® techniques. Dr. Dugar’s specialized focus and decades of lineage-based training ensure that patients benefit from advanced surgical artistry and a patient-first approach at our luxurious and comfortable facilities.

Through his dedicated use of closed rhinoplasty, Dr. Dugar has transformed the approach to bulbous tip correction. By accessing and refining the nasal cartilage internally, he avoids external incisions, reducing trauma and downtime. This method preserves the nose’s natural structure while achieving smooth, balanced results without visible scarring.

How Scarless Nose® Rhinoplasty for Bulbous Nose Can Help

With his specialized closed rhinoplasty technique, Dr. Dugar reshapes the tip cartilages internally, removing or refining them as needed to create a slimmer, more defined tip. By using the Scarless Nose® method, no external incisions are placed on the columella, leaving the skin intact and scar-free. 

Benefits include: 

  • No visible scars: all incisions are hidden inside the nostrils 
  • Natural results: refined, sculpted tip that appears harmonious with your facial features 
  • Preserved function: breathing passages and internal structures remain uncompromised 
  • Quicker recovery: less trauma and reconstructive techniques result in reduced swelling and bruising 
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Am I a Good Candidate for a Bulbous Nose Rhinoplasty? 

Not sure if this is the right path for you? The following points can help you better understand your candidacy for the procedure:

  • You are in good overall health
  • You do not have significant underlying conditions (e.g., severe bleeding disorders, uncontrolled diabetes) that could affect surgery or recovery
  • You are a nonsmoker or are willing to stop smoking for the recommended pre- and post-operative periods
  • You can commit to following all pre-operative and post-operative care instructions to ensure optimal healing and results
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What to Expect During a Bulbous Nose Rhinoplasty

During your Scarless Nose® rhinoplasty surgery, Dr. Dugar accesses the nasal cartilage via a closed approach, meaning all incisions are made internally, within the nostrils. 

Once you’re comfortably under anesthesia, he uses specialized instruments to access and precisely reshape the underlying tip cartilages. Any excess or overly broad cartilage is carefully trimmed or strategically sutured to achieve a more refined, balanced contour while preserving crucial support structures that help maintain nasal function. 

Because no external incisions are used, no visible scar is left on the columella (the strip of skin between the nostrils). The entire procedure typically takes between one and two hours.

Recovery and Results after Bulbous Nose Rhinoplasty

As you recover from your procedure, here’s what you can expect during the healing process:

  • Mild swelling and bruising may occur, but usually subside within a week or two
  • Most patients feel comfortable returning to work or light activities within a week, though rigorous exercise should be avoided for two to three weeks or as advised by Dr. Dugar
  • As the swelling diminishes, you’ll notice a refined tip that complements your natural facial features
  • Final results continue to improve over several months as residual swelling resolves and the nose settles into its new shape

Why Choose Dr. Dugar for a Bulbous Nose Rhinoplasty?

Dr. Dugar specializes in addressing bulbous nasal tips with exceptional precision, using his Scarless Nose® technique to create a more refined, natural-looking result without external scars.

He is a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon focused exclusively on closed rhinoplasty to provide his patients with the most optimal results. His specialized expertise provides: 

  • Advanced training and execution in rhinoplasty techniques 
  • Thousands of successful rhinoplasty procedures 
  • Natural-looking results that enhance your unique features 
  • Patient-centered approach throughout your entire journey

Learn more about Dr. Deepak Dugar’s expertise, philosophy, and approach to natural rhinoplasty.

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Bulbous Nose Rhinoplasty FAQs

Will I Need to Stop Wearing Glasses or Sunglasses After Surgery?

While glasses don’t typically pose a long-term issue, avoiding heavy frames or resting eyewear directly on your nose for the first few weeks is advisable to prevent added pressure on the healing tissues.

Are Cartilage Grafts Ever Necessary for Bulbous-Nose Correction?

Occasionally, if the nasal tip requires additional structural support or definition, Dr. Dugar may use a small cartilage graft from your own nose (e.g., the septum). This is typically minimal and still accomplished through internal incisions.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Age for a boxy or round-nose tip (Bulbous-Nose) surgery?

Most rhinoplasty surgeons recommend waiting until nasal growth is nearly complete—typically around age 16 for females and slightly older for males. There’s no strict upper age limit as long as a patient is healthy and cleared for surgery.

Can I Combine Other Facial Procedures with a Bulbous-Nose Rhinoplasty?

Yes, complementary facial treatments (like chin augmentation or injectables) are sometimes performed alongside closed rhinoplasty. Combining procedures can be more efficient for the patient but depends on individual goals and safety considerations.

Will I Be Under General or Local Anesthesia?

Typically, a Bulbous Nose Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure. However, specific anesthesia plans can vary depending on individual health factors and preferences.

How Often Will I See Dr. Dugar After My Surgery?

Follow-up visits usually begin within a week of surgery to monitor initial healing. Subsequent appointments may be scheduled at intervals of a few weeks to a few months to ensure proper recovery and address any concerns.

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Backed by a legacy of excellence, Dr. Dugar merges scientific precision with artistic vision to deliver refined, scar-free results you can trust. Experience the difference yourself—book your consultation at The Beverly Hills Rhinoplasty Center™ today. 

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