What to Know Before You Consider This Rhinoplasty Style

In the age of social media, plastic surgery is no stranger to trends. The latest: the "Barbie nose". A "Barbie nose" refers to a small, narrow and slightly upturned nose, reminiscent of a traditional Barbie doll nose. While some people may find this look appealing, it is important to understand the potential risks and long-term implications associated with pursuing this type of rhinoplasty.

1. Potential Breathing Problems After Rhinoplasty

Creating the narrow bridge of a "Barbie nose" typically requires significant removal of bone and cartilage. This process can narrow the nasal passageways, leading to breathing issues.

2. Risk of Structural Collapse

Even if the rhinoplasty is initially successful, an aggressive rhinoplasty may not stand the test of time. Over time, the tip can collapse, creating an unnatural "pinched" appearance. The thinning of the nasal bridge also makes the nose more susceptible to gravity with age. For individuals who require an aggressive rhinoplasty to achieve this look, the likelihood of a difficult revision surgery is high.

3. The Importance of Facial Harmony

The best rhinoplasty is one that looks like you could have been born with it. This is why a cookie-cutter approach to rhinoplasty is not ideal for most patients. A qualified rhinoplasty surgeon approaches rhinoplasty with the goal of your nose blending better with your other features, rather than standing out.

4. Social Media vs. Reality

Many of the amazing transformations you see are results right off the surgery table when the bandage is removed. What you don't see are what a patient's nose looks like months or years later. A quick internet search reveals the reality many women have faced long after their procedure.

A Facial Plastic Surgeon's Advice

Dr. Anand Patel is double-board certified and has been practicing facial plastic surgery for nearly 20 years. He is a top recognized facial plastic surgeon in the Midwest, specializing in rhinoplasty and other procedures of the face and neck. His advice:

"The Barbie nose offers a highly feminine look that can be stunning on some faces but feel out of place on others. The best candidates are petite individuals with delicate bone structure and thin skin, as these traits allow for sharper definition and a more natural result. Ethnic background and family resemblance should also be considered. For some, this is a dramatic change that may create social tension. Computer imaging is an excellent way to preview whether the nose truly “fits” the face."

Considering Barbie Nose Rhinoplasty?

If you are considering rhinoplasty, we recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty. A skilled, board-certified facial plastic surgeon will not only prioritize appearance of the nose, but the longevity of the outcome as well. If you're interested in a consultation with Dr. Patel, you can start by scheduling a free, no-obligation phone call with our patient coordinator to discuss rhinoplasty costs & details before booking an official consultation with Dr. Anand Patel.