What is Middle Eastern rhinoplasty?
Many patients from the Middle East come to us with three concerns together: a dorsal hump, a tip that hangs down (especially when smiling, because of an active depressor muscle) and thick skin that blurs tip definition. Treating only one of these rarely gives a balanced result.
The plan therefore combines a controlled hump reduction, tip support with your own cartilage, and — when the nose is genuinely long — the shortening described on our long nose surgery page. The goal is a strong, elegant nose, not a small one.
Who is a good candidate?
- A visible hump in profile photos.
- A tip that droops or moves down when you smile.
- A long nose relative to the rest of the face.
- Thick or oily skin with a heavy-looking tip.
- Breathing difficulty from a deviated septum.
If you prefer a female-led care team and private recovery space, see our Muslim-friendly plastic surgery page.
Hump reduction vs full Middle Eastern rhinoplasty
| Hump reduction only | Full rhinoplasty | Filler camouflage | |
| Treats hump | Yes | Yes | Hides small humps |
| Lifts drooping tip | No | Yes | No |
| Thick-skin tip definition | No | Yes, gradually | No |
| Downtime | 7–10 days | 10–14 days | 1–2 days |
| Permanence | Permanent | Permanent | 6–12 months |
How the procedure works
Before & after
Before
After
Cases from other categories are in our before & after gallery.
Recovery timeline and travel planning
| Day 1–3 | Swelling and bruising around the eyes; rest in a quiet, private room. |
|---|---|
| Day 7 | Splint off; bruising fading. Most patients can be out in Seoul with a mask. |
| Day 10–14 | Final check with Dr. Lee and fit to fly home. |
| Month 3–12+ | Hump area settles early; the thick-skinned tip refines slowly. |
“A strong nose can be beautiful. My job is to make it balanced, not to make it disappear.”
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung · Chief DirectorRisks, honestly
The main avoidable risk is over-reduction: taking down the hump too far, which leaves a scooped bridge, or over-rotating the tip. Thick skin also increases the chance of scar tissue above the tip and keeps swelling longer. General risks include bleeding, infection, asymmetry and a small chance of revision.
Frequently asked questions
Will my nose look too small or upturned?
No — the plan keeps a strong bridge and a natural tip angle. Over-rotation is one of the things Dr. Lee specifically avoids.
Are female staff and private rooms available?
Yes. Dr. Lee is a female surgeon, female staff options are available, and private, hijab-friendly rooms can be arranged.
Can my tip stop dropping when I smile?
Often, yes. Releasing or adjusting the depressor muscle and supporting the tip reduces that movement.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
Plan on 10–14 days, as the hump work means the bones need a little longer under the splint.
Is the consultation in English?
Yes, consultations are in English, and you can start with a free WhatsApp photo review.
Can it be combined with eyelid or face procedures?
Sometimes, after a health check. Many patients add eye procedures to the same trip.