At Pall Mall, we understand that achieving an aesthetically contoured nose is a top priority for many individuals seeking Rhinoplasty. However, one common concern that can arise after nasal surgery is pollybeak deformity - a condition that can affect the final result of a nose job.
What is pollybeak deformity?
Pollybeak deformity gets its name from the resemblance of the nose to a parrot’s beak. Pall Mall’s ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeon Professor Raghavan who specialises in advanced Rhinoplasty and Face Lifts explains: “This condition occurs when there is excessive fullness or a drooping appearance in the supratip area (just above the nasal tip), giving the nose an unnatural convex shape.”
There are two main types of pollybeak deformity:
Soft tissue pollybeak: Caused by excessive swelling or thick scar tissue formation in the supratip area after Rhinoplasty.
Cartilaginous pollybeak: Results from inadequate removal or overgrowth of cartilage in the lower nasal bridge.
What causes pollybeak deformity?
Several factors can contribute to the development of pollybeak deformity after Rhinoplasty, including:
Over-reduction of the nasal dorsum: If too much bone is removed from the nasal bridge without properly addressing the cartilage, it can lead to an imbalance in nasal structure.
Insufficient tip support: Weak nasal tip support can cause the tip to droop while the area above it remains overly full.
Professor Raghavan explains how he combats this in his surgeries: “To ensure proper tip support and structural integrity, I carefully balance cartilage and bone removal while sometimes adding thicker skin to the tip area of the nose.”
Excessive scar tissue formation: In some cases, the body’s natural healing process results in thickened scar tissue in the supratip area, leading to a pollybeak-like appearance.
Post-surgical swelling: Some patients experience prolonged swelling in the supratip area, which can mimic the look of pollybeak deformity. However, Professor Raghavan states that “advanced surgical techniques can be used to minimise this”.
How is pollybeak deformity corrected?
If pollybeak deformity occurs, it can often be improved through non-surgical or surgical interventions:
Non-surgical correction: Professor Raghavan says that “in mild cases, corticosteroid injections can help reduce swelling and scar tissue buildup, improving the nasal contour”.
Revision Rhinoplasty: For more severe cases, a secondary Rhinoplasty may be required to reshape the nasal structure, remove excess cartilage, and refine the tip.
Considering Rhinoplasty?
If you’re considering Rhinoplasty or have concerns about a previous procedure, our highly skilled GMC registered surgeons at Pall Mall are here to help. We offer expert consultations and personalised treatment plans to ensure you achieve your desired result while offering exceptional aftercare throughout your healing process.
Book your free, no obligation consultation today and take the next step toward your desired nose!
