What are the differences between absent nasal bones and a flat nose?

The difference between absent nasal bone and a flat nose lies in the presence or absence of the nasal bone, different causes, and distinct treatment methods. Specific details are as follows:

1. Presence of Nasal Bone

Absent nasal bone usually refers to a congenital condition where the nasal bone is missing entirely, whereas a flat nose (nasal depression) means the nasal bone exists but presents as a sunken nasal bridge.

2. Different Causes

Absent nasal bone may result from chromosomal abnormalities, acute trauma, or violent injuries; a flat nose may be caused by congenital factors, postnatal infections, or trauma.

3. Different Treatment Methods

For absent nasal bone, since there is no nasal bone to provide structural support, treatments such as implant rhinoplasty or autologous cartilage grafting can be performed to create a well-defined, elevated nose. For a flat nose, individuals seeking aesthetic improvement can undergo fat grafting—extracting excess fat from their own body, processing it, and injecting it into the nasal bridge area to achieve a higher nasal profile. Alternatively, costal (rib) cartilage from the patient’s own body can be harvested, processed, and transplanted to the nasal bridge to correct the flat nasal appearance.

For both absent nasal bone and flat nose correction, it is recommended to seek treatment at a reputable plastic surgery hospital. Postoperative wound care should be strengthened to prevent infection.