What is dorsal hump removal?
A dorsal hump is a convex bump where the nasal bones meet the upper lateral cartilages. It is usually inherited, though a knock to the nose can enlarge it. Seen from the side, it can make the whole nose look larger than it is.
Removing it is part of a rhinoplasty. The skill lies in what happens after the hump is gone: the roof of the nose is opened, and it must be closed or rebuilt so the bridge stays smooth and the internal valve stays open. When the tip also droops or projects, see long nose correction.
Who is a good candidate for hump reduction?
- A visible bump on the bridge in profile photos.
- A bridge that looks too high relative to the tip and forehead.
- A hump that grew after an injury once the bones have fully healed.
- Realistic goals — a refined line, not a deeply scooped one.
- Facial growth complete — usually from late teens onwards.
Patients who would like a straighter profile without lowering the bridge much sometimes prefer to camouflage the dip above or below the hump with non-surgical rhinoplasty instead.
Rasping, preservation or filler for a hump?
| Component reduction | Preservation rhinoplasty | Filler camouflage | |
| How it works | Hump shaved, roof rebuilt | Bridge lowered as one unit | Volume added around hump |
| Best for | Most humps, any size | Smooth, straight humps | Very small humps |
| Bridge height | Lowered | Lowered | Unchanged or raised |
| Downtime | 7–14 days | 7–14 days | 1–2 days |
| Longevity | Permanent | Permanent | Months |
How is a dorsal hump removed?
Before & after
Before
After
Nose cases are shown privately at consultation; other results are in the before & after gallery.
How long does recovery take?
| Day 1–3 | Swelling around the eyes and some bruising, especially if bones were narrowed. |
|---|---|
| Day 7 | Splint removed; the straighter profile is already visible. |
| Week 2 | Bruising mostly faded; desk work and light make-up. |
| Month 6–12 | Bridge definition sharpens as the last swelling clears. |
“I take the hump down a little at a time and keep checking the profile. It is far easier to take a touch more than to put height back.”
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung · Chief DirectorWhat are the risks of dorsal hump surgery?
Possible problems include a small residual bump, an over-lowered or scooped bridge, an inverted-V shadow if the roof is not rebuilt, mild asymmetry, prolonged swelling and, rarely, breathing changes. Conservative, stepwise reduction and middle-vault support are how we keep those risks low.
Frequently asked questions
Can the hump come back?
Bone and cartilage that are removed do not grow back, although a little callus can form; a small touch-up is occasionally needed.
Will my nose look smaller?
Usually a little, because the profile is less prominent, but the aim is balance rather than a much smaller nose.
Is there a visible scar?
Closed rhinoplasty leaves no outside scar; the open approach leaves a fine line under the columella that is hard to see once healed.
Will I have bruising?
Some bruising is common if the nasal bones are narrowed, and it usually fades within 10–14 days.
Can I wear glasses afterwards?
Avoid resting glasses on the bridge for about four to six weeks.
Who performs the surgery?
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung handles your consultation, operation and aftercare personally.