Ethnic Rhinoplasty — Preserving Identity
In 2026, there is a strong surgical philosophy centered on Ethnic Rhinoplasty, which focuses on refinement while strictly preserving a patient's cultural and ethnic identity.
Philosophy Change: The goal is no longer a "universal" or "standard" nose shape. Instead, surgeons tailor techniques to complement different facial structures, such as those found in African, Asian, or Middle Eastern patients.
Technique Variations: This often involves "additive" surgery—using cartilage grafts to increase bridge height or tip projection—rather than the "reductive" (removal) techniques commonly used in Caucasian rhinoplasty.
Grafting Innovations: In 2026, if a patient lacks enough septal cartilage, surgeons use advanced 3D-printed bio-scaffolds or lab-grown cartilage to provide structural support without needing a "donor site" from the ribs or ears.