Septorhinoplasty for the Arabic Nose: Simple Endonasal Techniques

Abstract

Abstract Individuals from the Middle East or of Middle Eastern origins are increasingly seeking cosmetic nasal surgery as their traditional societies gradually become more exposed to the media. This is especially evident in the tribal communities of the Gulf, where financial issues are less of a concern. The Gulf States have also witnessed a rapid influx of foreign migrants over the last 30 years or so. This has resulted in a more racially and ethnically diverse population. The concept of ethnic rhinoplasty is gaining popularity. This entails resculpturing the nose to make it more acceptable within the patient’s own ethnicity and not to overcorrect or alter its characteristics to that of another ethnicity. The characteristic features of the Arabic nose, when exaggerated, are a good example where ethnic rhinoplasty techniques may be of value. The aim of this study was to identify patients with exaggerated features of the characteristic Arabic nose, which are a long nose with a dorsal hump and a pendant tip. Subjective as well as objective measures including the clinical nasal index and the projection index were used to identify and quantify these anomalies. We will review some simple endonasal techniques for the correction of these perceived abnormalities for the best cosmetic as well as functional results. Sixty four patients with typical Arabic nasal features underwent septorhinoplasty using simple endonasal techniques. The majority of patients were very satisfied with their appearance after surgery. There were few minor complications with the techniques used. Exaggerated features of the Arabic nose can be adequately corrected using a few simple endonasal techniques.