Nose job, called rhinoplasty, has been a trending cosmetic surgery. What looks like a common and easy process, may get messed up even by the most experienced plastic surgeons.
Pollybeak deformity is one such complication that may arise after rhinoplasty. In this article, we will cover all the aspects of pollybeak deformity after rhinoplasty, from its causes to solution and prevention tips.
What Is Pollybeak Deformity?
The word “pollybeak” originates from a distinct parrot beak appearance. This type of deformity is also known as supratip malformation. It is one of the common complications which may affect rhinoplasty patients.
This deformity is characterized by convexity of the nasal bridge, the area just above the nasal tip. It looks most prominent in the side-profile, with a prominent bird-like appearance. This fullness in this region can lead to lowered self-confidence.
What Causes Pollybeak Deformity After Rhinoplasty?

There can be multiple causes of pollybeak deformity after rhinoplasty surgery. Some of these factors leading to this deformity include:
- Excessive Removal Of Nasal Hump: If the surgeon decreased the nasal hump without considering nasal skin, the skin stretches out. This excess skin joined together developing into scar tissue and leading to this appearance.
- Inadequate Removal Of Nasal Hump: If the surgeon does not decrease the nasal hump, it can lead to thick nasal skin in this region.
- Inexperienced Surgeon: These surgeons may not completely understand the anatomy of the nose or the recovery process in rhinoplasty patients.
- Tension Tip Poor Management: People with tension tips, a strong prominent nasal tip, may experience this complication. The surgeon may remove the nasal hump without adjusting nasal tip cartilages, leading to pollybeak deformity.
Symptoms Of Pollybeak Deformity After Rhinoplasty
Apart from cosmetic concerns, there can be functional issues as well. These include:
- Difficulty Breathing: This inner deformed structure can cause airflow obstruction, which can make breathing harder.
- Congestion: People experiencing nasal congestion or stuffing, may not be able to feel better even with decongestants.
- Snoring: Obstructed airflow through deformed nose can lead to snoring.
What Are The Different Types Of Pollybeak Deformity?
Mainly there are two types of pollybeak deformity. Let’s take a look at them.
- Cartilaginous Pollybeak: This type occurs when the surgeon resects excessive nasal bone and lower lateral cartilage without respecting adequate cartilage from the bridge.
- Soft Tissue Pollybeak: If the surgeon does not redrape the nasal skin properly over the supra tip area, this leads to excess scar tissue giving and the characteristic parrot beak look.
What Is The Solution Of Pollybeak Deformity?

The solution depends on the cause of deformity. The surgeon must be skillful enough to correct the inadequacy of previous surgery.To correct pollybeak deformity after rhinoplasty, the patient may have the following options. The surgeon will decide which option is more suitable.
- Revision Surgery: The best treatment for pollybeak deformity is revision rhinoplasty. Graft material may be taken from the ribs.
- Steroid Injections: The surgeon may opt for steroid injections to decrease post-op swelling and scar formation in the nose. However, they shouldn’t be injected more than once every month or so due to increased risk of deformity.
- Dermal Fillers: This can elevate nasal tips and improve the appearance of the nasal hump. Results last only for 6 months to 1 year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to still have a hump after rhinoplasty?
Yes, it is normal to have a hump after rhinoplasty. This could be due to swelling after the procedure. Even though it starts to resolve within a month, it may take up to 1 year.
When does pollybeak deformity start?
It may start to appear as swelling subsides. So you may notice this deformity within 1-2 months but it may become clearly visible after 1 year.
How common is a pollybeak deformity?
Pollybeak deformity is one of the most common complications after rhinoplasty. According to a survey, almost 50% of people have this complication after rhinoplasty which needs a revision surgery.