Hi. I’m a 24-year-old woman of African heritage, and while I’m proud of that, I feel like my nostrils are too large and detract from my overall appearance. I don’t want to sacrifice my ethnic appearance. Is there something I can do to improve my nose and still honor my ethnicity?

Hi. I’m a 24-year-old woman of African heritage, and while I’m proud of that, I feel like my nostrils are too large and detract from my overall appearance. I don’t want to sacrifice my ethnic appearance. Is there something I can do to improve my nose and still honor my ethnicity?

Yes! My own background is culturally mixed, so I have always taken pride in helping my patients preserve the distinct characteristics of their ethnic heritage while making subtle changes to improve overall facial balance.

The procedure you’re looking for is an ethnic rhinoplasty, and it can address a number of issues for someone of African descent, including the size of nostrils.

Other concerns might include reducing thick nasal sin, redefining the nasal tip, correcting a short nasal bone, and increasing nose support.

You’ll want do consult a board-certified surgeon who is well experienced in performing ethnic rhinoplasty for African Americans, because your surgery requires an understanding of the unique characteristics of your facial structure.

Keep in mind that post-operative swelling may mean that you don’t notice an immediate improvement, but as the swelling subsides you will gradually see the subtle changes that will show a change in your nostrils and bring balance to your facial features.