Posted by Dr. Miguel Fernández Calderón: 27/09/2024
Everyone’s nose is unique, with different sizes and widths. If you have questions about how to improve your profile, nose surgery in Madrid may be the solution you’re looking for. In many cultures, a straight nose is seen as offering a better appearance, but not everyone is born with this shape. However, there are surgical options for correction—for example, if you have a Roman nose and want to refine it, you can opt for rhinoplasty.
What is a Roman nose?
The Roman nose, also known as an aquiline nose, is one that has a distinctive curve on the bridge. The term aquiline comes from the Latin term aquilinus, which literally translates as eagle-like, because the curve that forms evokes the beak of this bird.
It is a type of long nose with a long bridge and septum, fairly elongated bones, and a tip that points downward. This could cause breathing difficulties.
Characteristics
- Slightly enlarged nostrils.
- Convex profile, with the tip of the nose pointing downward toward the lips.
- Strong cartilage at the tip and a visible protuberance.
- High and prominent bridge that extends from the forehead.
- A slight curve on the bridge, not overly pronounced.
History of the Roman nose
The Roman nose is associated with certain ethnicity, as it is distinguished as an attribute of various cultures and civilizations since antiquity. It was associated with symbolic figures in history, as a symbol of personality, beauty, and status.
It was even viewed as a sign of social status in different cultures, as a symbol of sophistication, intelligence, and good taste.

Causes and genetic factors of the Roman nose
Genetic inheritance
The shape of the nose is generally associated with our genetics, just like eye color, hair color, and other physical characteristics. If members of your family, especially parents and grandparents, have this shape, it is likely that you will develop it as well.
Injuries or infections
A sudden blow or injury can alter the shape of the nose, whether from contact sports, falls, or accidents.
Certain severe infections can also potentially change the structure and appearance of the nose. There are even rare tumors that can alter the appearance and structure of this area.
Aesthetic surgery options to modify the Roman nose
Despite its striking appearance, the Roman nose is not a medical condition for most who have it. Although they have no health problems, they may feel some insecurity and seek surgical procedures such as rhinoplasty to change their appearance.
Rhinoplasty to correct the Roman nose
Let us remember that there is no perfect nose shape; however, the aquiline or Roman nose is one of the most commonly corrected with rhinoplasty, mainly to modify a deviated septum.
Nose surgery is a surgical procedure to modify the structure and appearance of the nose. Different methods can be used, such as ultrasonic, open, or closed rhinoplasty. Each rhinoplasty has a different cost, and should be selected based on the patient’s characteristics and needs.
Surgery for a Roman or aquiline nose usually involves reshaping the bones and cartilage to change the shape and size of the nose. In evolutionary rhinoplasty, the bridge is straightened, thus eliminating the hooked shape.
Depending on the surgical approach, the surgeon will make incisions in the nose, either inside or outside the nostrils. The cartilage or bone will be reshaped to achieve the desired result.
Once the surgeon has reshaped the nose, they will close the incisions with sutures and place a splint to maintain this new shape during the postoperative period.

Non-surgical methods
If you don’t want to undergo corrective surgery, you could opt for non-surgical options. Primarily through the injection of dermal fillers in strategic areas of the nose that subtly alter the shape and contour of it.
Although it is a less invasive option than surgery, it doesn’t work for everyone—only for those who need minor modifications for a slightly curved nose, a protruding shape, a small hump on the bridge, or where only the tip requires correction.
Benefits of rhinoplasty for the Roman nose
The most obvious benefit of rhinoplasty for the Roman nose is the improvement in the appearance of the nose. Since surgery can refine the shape and create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance that suits your other facial features.
There are also cases where rhinoplasty can greatly improve a person’s quality of life. This is true if they have a deviated septum or another structural problem in the nose that makes breathing through the nose difficult.
Another benefit is that rhinoplasty serves to correct blows or wounds to the nose, which as a consequence resulted in the person ending up with a Roman nose.
It is important to note that although the nose may continue a natural aging and development process over the years, rhinoplasty is a surgery that offers permanent results, as the new structure of the nose will remain intact over time.
Recovery process after rhinoplasty for Roman nose
Postoperative care
The rhinoplasty recovery process takes time and patience. Immediately after surgery, a splint or bandage will be placed on the area to maintain the shape during recovery. You may have gauze placed inside your nostrils to control bleeding.
It is important to respect the rest period your doctor recommends and take the time necessary before returning to work or school.
In the first few days after surgery, you will have some discomfort and swelling, as well as bruising around the nose and eyes. You can relieve these symptoms with medications prescribed by the surgeon, cold compresses, and keeping your head elevated while lying down.
Additionally, you should avoid blowing your nose or sneezing, as this can cause bleeding.
Results and recovery time
After surgery, it is common to have inflammation in the area; on average, this can take between 4 and 7 days. Normally, by the end of the first week you should attend a postoperative consultation where the bandages and gauze will be removed. After that, at three weeks and three months, the surgeon will monitor the results.
The nose will be swollen for several weeks and months, and it will take time to return to its normal shape. During this period, you must continue following the surgeon’s instructions.
Final results will be visible approximately one year after surgery.
If you want to know whether you are a good candidate for rhinoplasty to correct the Roman nose and improve your appearance, contact one of our expert surgeons.


