The archetypal Asian nose discussed in this chapter
is typified by the Asian Malay nose or the East Asian (Chinese, Japanese and
Korean) type of nose. There is indeed a spectrum of these noses, with
northerners e.g. from north China and Korea having higher dorsums compared to
their Asian southerners with lower dorsums. The Asian nose primarily discussed
here is typified by petiteness and flatness.
The overall mid-facial bony
components and nasal septum can be thought of as being
"underdeveloped". Hence the radix tends to low with a low rhinion and
low mid-third dorsal profile height. The shorter nasal septum with a less
projected anterior septal angle results in a nasal tip that lacks projection. A
less projected tip, in turn, is more rounded with less tip definition. There
usually is also relatively thicker skin overlying the nasal tip and lobules.
The ala basal width is also wider.
From the basal view, the nostrils of the Asian
nostril appear more rounded compared to the tear-drop appearance of the Western
nose. This is due to the lack of projection. The columella may appear short and
retracted, lacking support from the caudal septum. Internally, the
cartilaginous septum of the Asian nose is generally less generous which
explains the deprojected tip; this smaller size will impact upon the
availability of septal donor material too. The medial and lateral crura of the
lower lateral cartilages are smaller, weaker and softer than Caucasian noses,
and tend to have a more oblique to vertical lie. The upper lateral cartilages
are similarly small in size to.
The
information aims to provide educational purpose only. Anyone reading it should
consult ENT Specialists before considering treatment and should not rely on the information
above.
