The feature commonly described as a nose “bone sticking out” is technically known as a dorsal hump, which is a protrusion found along the bridge of the nose. This contour irregularity is a variation in the complex structure of the nasal dorsum, not an abnormality. The appearance of a prominent bridge can range from a slight curvature to a pronounced projection when viewed in profile. Understanding this feature requires examining the anatomy and the biological factors that determine its final shape.
Understanding the Components of the Nasal Bridge
The structure of the nose is a framework composed of both bone and cartilage that extends from the forehead to the tip. The upper third of the nasal bridge, closest to the eyes, is formed by the paired nasal bones, which provide a rigid structure. These bones are supported in the midline by the bony part of the nasal septum.
The middle third of the nose consists of cartilage, which is where the prominence often becomes noticeable. This area is formed by the upper lateral cartilages and the dorsal septum, the central dividing wall of the nose. A dorsal hump represents an excess of either bone, cartilage, or both, along this central support structure.
Primary Drivers of Nasal Prominence
The primary reasons for the development of a prominent nasal bridge are rooted in genetics and developmental biology. The final shape of the nose is largely determined by inherited genes. If parents or siblings have a noticeable nasal hump, a person is more likely to develop one as well.
The hump often becomes noticeable during adolescence because the nose is one of the last facial features to complete its growth. Differential growth rates between the nasal septum and the surrounding bone and cartilage can lead to the prominence. When the cartilaginous septum grows faster or larger than the nasal bones, it creates a forward and upward push.
External factors like trauma can also lead to the formation of a dorsal hump. An injury, such as a blow to the nose, can cause damage to the bone or cartilage. If a fracture or damage heals unevenly, it can create a noticeable bump or irregularity on the bridge. Scar tissue formation during the healing process following trauma also contributes to the irregular contour.
Approaches to Altering Nasal Profile
The most common approach for permanent change is surgical modification, known as rhinoplasty. During this procedure, a surgeon reshapes the nose by carefully removing or reducing the excess bone and cartilage that forms the hump, creating a smoother contour along the nasal bridge.
A less invasive option is non-surgical rhinoplasty, often called a liquid nose job, which uses injectable dermal fillers. This technique camouflages the hump by adding volume to the areas above and below the protrusion. The filler, typically hyaluronic acid, creates the illusion of a straighter bridge by smoothing the overall profile. Liquid rhinoplasty is effective for mild to moderate humps and offers a temporary correction without the downtime associated with surgery.