Hump Reduction Surgery: What to Expect, Benefits, and Recovery
Understanding Hump Reduction Surgery
A dorsal hump is a noticeable bump on the bridge of the nose, often influencing facial balance and overall appearance. While some individuals embrace their nasal profile, others may feel self-conscious about a prominent hump, seeking options to achieve a smoother, more refined look.
Dorsal humps are primarily hereditary, passed down through genetics, though injuries or trauma can also contribute to their development. Structurally, a dorsal hump consists of both bone and cartilage, making non-surgical treatments less effective for long-term correction. For those looking for a permanent solution, hump reduction surgery—a specialised form of rhinoplasty—can remove or reshape the hump to enhance nasal aesthetics and, in some cases, improve breathing.
Beyond aesthetics, some individuals with a dorsal hump also experience functional concerns, such as a deviated septum, which can impact airflow and nasal function. Whether for cosmetic enhancement or improved nasal function, understanding the dorsal hump is the first step toward making an informed decision about treatment options.
Dorsal hump causes
A dorsal hump can develop due to various factors, including:
- Dorsal hump nose ethnicity – Certain ethnicities may be more prone to a dorsal hump, such as Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian populations.
- Trauma or injury – A past nasal injury can lead to the development of a hump over time.
- Bone and cartilage growth – Natural growth variations can result in a dorsal hump forming during puberty.
Can a dorsal hump go away naturally?
A dorsal hump does not disappear on its own unless it is caused by temporary swelling or injury that later resolves. However, specific non-surgical techniques, such as dermal fillers, can provide temporary camouflage (Dorsal hump removal without surgery).
Hump Reduction Surgery: The Procedure
Hump reduction surgery reshapes the nasal bridge by removing or smoothing excess bone and cartilage. The procedure is tailored to each patient’s individual facial structure to produce natural and symmetrical results.
Surgical Steps:
- Consultation – Dr Levente Deak conducts a detailed evaluation and facial symmetry analysis.
- Anesthesia – General or local anaesthesia is given based on the complexity of the procedure.
- Surgical approach:
- Open rhinoplasty: Requires an external incision at the columella (the strip between the nostrils) for better precision.
- Closed rhinoplasty: All incisions are made in the nostrils, causing no visible scars.
- Bone & cartilage reduction – The dorsal hump is carefully sculpted to create a smoother nasal profile.
- Refinement & symmetry adjustments – Additional modifications may be performed to ensure a balanced, natural-looking nose.
- Stitching & recovery – The nose is stabilised using splints to aid healing.
Benefits of hump reduction surgery
- Improved facial proportions – Smoothing the nasal bridge enhances overall facial symmetry.
- Increased confidence – Patients often feel more comfortable and satisfied with their appearance.
- Improved breathing – For some individuals the procedure alleviates airway obstruction.
- Results that stay – Unlike temporary fixes, surgical correction offers lasting improvements.
- Quick recovery – Under the care of an expert like Dr Levente Deak, patients experience a streamlined healing process with minimal downtime.
Dorsal hump removal cost
Dorsal hump removal cost varies based on factors like:
- The complexity of the procedure
- The need for additional corrections (e.g., tip refinement, septoplasty)
- The surgeon’s expertise and clinic location
- Whether the procedure is performed as a standalone treatment or part of a full rhinoplasty
Most insurance providers do not cover cosmetic dorsal hump removal unless it is deemed medically necessary due to breathing issues or structural nasal deformities. Dr. Levente offers installment options for up to 6 months.
Recovery timeline:
- Week 1: Swelling and bruising peak; external splint is removed.Patients can resume work in 7 days.
- Weeks 2-4: Most visible swelling subsides, and patients can resume daily activities. Results will be visible. Patients can resume exercise.
- Months 2-6: Subtle refinements become more apparent as tissues settle.
- Full results: Usually visible within 6-12 months post-surgery.
- Aftercare tips:
- Avoid strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks.
- Sleep with your head elevated to manage swelling.
- Follow all post-op care instructions provided by Dr. Levente Deak.
- Attend scheduled follow-ups to monitor healing progress.
- Avoid wearing glasses or sunglasses directly on the nasal bridge for the first few weeks.
Potential side effects:
- Temporary swelling and bruising around the eyes
- Mild discomfort, which can subside with prescribed pain relief
- Nasal congestion due to swelling
- In rare cases, minor asymmetry requiring revision surgery
Alternatives to hump reduction surgery
While surgery provides permanent results, some patients explore non-surgical options, such as:
- Nose hump reduction naturally: Certain exercises may claim to reshape the nose, but these methods lack scientific backing.
- Dermal fillers for non-surgical dorsal hump removal – Injectable fillers can temporarily smooth out a nasal hump without surgery.
- Nasal taping & exercises – While sometimes recommended for post-surgery maintenance, there is little evidence to support these methods for natural hump removal.
Get in touch with Dr Levnte Deak - From I like my nose to I love my nose journey
Selecting an experienced surgeon is crucial for achieving natural, symmetrical, and long-lasting results. Here’s why Dr Levente Deak is the right choice:
✔ Dual Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon (USA & EU)
✔ Specialised training in rhinoplasty and nasal reconstruction
✔ Personalised approach tailored to each patient’s facial harmony and function
✔ High success rate with minimal scarring and optimised recovery
Dr Levente is committed to give you both the right shape and best function.
Get in touch with Dr Levnte Deak - From I like my nose to I love my nose journey
No, a dorsal hump does not naturally disappear unless it is caused by temporary swelling. Bone and cartilage growth make it permanent unless surgically removed.
In some cases, a dorsal hump is associated with structural nasal issues like a deviated septum, which can contribute to breathing difficulties.
Surgical hump reduction permanently removes bone and cartilage, while non-surgical methods like dermal fillers temporarily camouflage the hump without altering its structure.
Most patients resume daily activities in 2-4 weeks, with full results visible in 6-12 months as swelling subsides completely.
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so there is no pain during surgery. Mild discomfort post-surgery can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
Pricing depends on the complexity of each case, and we offer installment plans—pay in up to 6 monthly payments for your Hump Reduction Surgery.