If the first thing you notice about your profile is a bump on your nose, you’re not alone—but you’re not stuck with it. That bump, known as a dorsal hump, is one of the most common reasons people seek rhinoplasty (aka, a nose job). At our San Diego practice, we’ve helped countless patients wondering how to get rid of a dorsal hump smooth their bumps, refine their profiles, and boost their confidence.
Let’s explore what causes a dorsal hump, how rhinoplasty can correct it, and show you some stunning before-and-after patient transformations that prove it’s possible to love your look from every angle!
What Is a Dorsal Hump—and Why Do I Have One?
A dorsal hump is a raised area on the bridge of the nose—made up of cartilage, bone, or both—that creates a bump when viewed from the side. While each dorsal hump is unique in shape and severity, they’re usually caused by similar concerns:
Genetics
Most dorsal humps are inherited. If your parents or grandparents had a bump on their nose, there’s a good chance it’s passed down the family tree. However, you don’t need to let your self-confidence suffer. We help patients of all ages, including this lovely young lady, empower themselves by ditching their dreaded hump and achieving their ideal nose through rhinoplasty surgery.
Trauma or Injury
An injury—especially one that occurred during youth or adolescence—can cause the cartilage or bone to heal unevenly, leading to a dorsal hump. Take, for example, this active young woman who sustained a damaging childhood softball injury. After seeking rhinoplasty in her early 20s, she’s finally breathing easier and no longer self-conscious about her dorsal hump. She also loves the refined feminine nasal tip that beautifully complements her features.
Developmental Changes
As your nose grows and matures during adolescence, changes in the cartilage and bone structure may cause a dorsal hump to become more noticeable.
No matter the cause, the good news is that a skilled plastic surgeon can expertly remove or reshape a dorsal hump for a more balanced, refined look. After rhinoplasty, this young woman has a lovely, refreshed nose and a stunning profile pic!
Many patients correct a dorsal hump while simultaneously addressing other common nasal concerns, including:
Breathing Problems
A deviated septum brings many patients to our office for a specialized rhinoplasty, known as septoplasty, that addresses breathing concerns. Plagued with blocked airways and unsatisfied with her dorsal hump and droopy tip, this young woman sought out Dr. Riedler’s expertise to breathe better and put her best face forward. She’s thrilled with her “new” nose and renewed sense of confidence!
Give this podcast a quick listen to hear more about the benefits of breathing better and looking your best.
A Botched Nose Job
We’re so glad this gentleman came to us for a revision rhinoplasty to correct a persistent dorsal hump and refine the overall shape of his nose. The results are striking—a smoother profile and more balanced facial proportions that enhance his natural features. Complementary procedures such as eyelid surgery and neck liposuction helped complete his transformation.
His story is one of many that show how an expertly performed revision rhinoplasty can restore confidence by correcting a nasal hump and other concerns, delivering the outcome you originally envisioned.
Want to view more stunning San Diego nose job transformations? View our full rhinoplasty gallery featuring actual LJCSC patients.
At LJCSC, board-certified rhinoplasty expert, Dr. Kristin Riedler, specializes in delivering the smooth, natural-looking nose contours you’ve always dreamed of—without compromising your unique look.
When it comes to dorsal hump rhinoplasty, Dr. Riedler uses advanced techniques to:
- Smooth out the bump by removing or reshaping cartilage and/or bone
- Refine the nasal bridge to suit your facial features better
- Preserve your unique look while creating a more balanced profile
She meticulously customizes every rhinoplasty to the individual, ensuring your new nose fits your face. Whether you want a subtle change or a dramatic difference, she’s able to make it happen. We also offer 3D imaging so you can preview your potential results and feel confident in your decision before surgery.
Are You Over Your Hump?
If you’re ready to dump your bump and perfect your profile, our team is here to help you smooth things over. Request a free rhinoplasty consultation in San Diego with Dr. Riedler using the online form or call us at (858) 452-1981 to schedule an appointment. Let us help you lose the hump and bump up your confidence with beautifully balanced results.