Hump Nose Surgery in Korea: A Smoother, Straighter Profile
The short answer
A hump nose in Korea is corrected with rhinoplasty that shaves or removes the dorsal hump of bone and cartilage, often with osteotomies to close the open roof and tip refinement for balance. Surgery takes about 1.5 to 3 hours and typically costs ₩4,000,000 to ₩10,000,000 in 2026. Splints come off after about 7 days, and the final profile settles over 6 to 12 months.
Key facts
- Main procedure: hump reduction rhinoplasty
- Techniques: rasping, excision, osteotomy, preservation rhinoplasty
- Surgery time: about 1.5–3 hours
- Typical cost: about ₩4,000,000–₩10,000,000
- Splint removal: about day 7
- Final result: 6–12 months
What is a hump nose?
A hump nose, or dorsal hump, is a bump or convex curve along the bridge of the nose, most visible from the side. The hump is made of bone at the top, cartilage lower down, or both. It can be inherited or caused by injury, and it often becomes more noticeable after puberty.
Common features
- A visible bump on the bridge in profile
- A tip that looks droopy because of the hump above it
- A nose that looks longer or larger overall
Treatment options in Korea
1. Rhinoplasty (dorsal hump removal)
The surgeon reduces the hump by rasping (filing) bone and trimming cartilage until the bridge line is smooth. The approach can be open or closed. See hump reduction and rhinoplasty.
2. Osteotomy (bone reshaping)
Removing a large hump can leave a flat, open area on top of the nose (an "open roof"). Controlled cuts in the nasal bones let the surgeon bring them together for a narrow, smooth bridge. Osteotomies can also narrow a wide bony bridge at the same time.
3. Tip refinement
After the hump is lowered, the tip may need adjusting so the profile looks balanced. Tip rotation, projection and refinement are commonly combined. See tip-plasty.
4. Non-surgical options (limited cases)
For a small hump, nose filler above and below the bump can camouflage it, making the bridge look straighter. This adds volume rather than removing the hump, so it suits only mild cases.
Preservation rhinoplasty
Some surgeons offer preservation techniques that lower the bridge by removing a strip of bone and septum beneath it, keeping the natural top surface intact. Ask whether you are a candidate, as it suits certain nose types.
Costs in Korea
| Procedure | Typical cost (2026) |
|---|---|
| Filler camouflage | ₩200,000–₩600,000 |
| Hump reduction rhinoplasty | ₩4,000,000–₩8,000,000 |
| Hump reduction + tip refinement | ₩5,000,000–₩10,000,000 |
| Revision rhinoplasty | ₩8,000,000–₩20,000,000 |
Recovery timeline
- Days 1–7: splint and possibly internal splints; swelling and bruising, more if osteotomies are done.
- Day 7: splint removed; flying home usually possible a few days later.
- Weeks 2–4: bruising fades; most visible swelling settles.
- Months 6–12: final profile.
Avoid glasses resting on the bridge for about 6 weeks and contact sports for 2 to 3 months.
Risks to discuss
Over-reduction can create a scooped bridge; under-reduction may leave a small hump. Other risks include irregularities that can be felt, asymmetry, breathing changes and the need for revision. Ask your surgeon to show the planned profile in a simulation.
How to choose a surgeon
- Ask how much of your hump is bone and how much is cartilage, and how each part will be handled.
- Ask whether osteotomies are needed and what that means for bruising and recovery.
- Ask how the surgeon keeps the bridge line natural for your face, rather than very straight or scooped.
- Confirm who performs the surgery, whether an anesthesiologist is present and what the revision policy is.
Planning your trip
Plan about 7 to 10 days in Seoul. The first days are best spent resting at your hotel with your head raised; sightseeing is easier once the splint is off. Pack sunglasses for bruising, a neck pillow for the flight home and any prescribed nasal saline spray. Avoid alcohol and long hot baths for two weeks, and ask the clinic how to reach them by message if you have questions after you leave.
Why patients choose Korea
Gangnam rhinoplasty surgeons handle a wide variety of nose types, including hump reduction for international patients who want a refined but natural profile. Many offer 3D imaging and English-speaking coordinators.
This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Prices are typical ranges reported by Gangnam clinics in 2026 and vary by clinic, doctor and treatment plan; confirm directly with the clinic.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
Can a hump be removed without breaking the nose?
Small humps can be rasped without osteotomies. Larger humps often need controlled bone cuts to keep the bridge smooth and narrow.
Will filler hide my hump?
For a small hump, filler can camouflage it. It adds volume rather than removing the bump.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
About 7 to 10 days for splint removal and checks.
Will my nose look smaller?
Usually, yes, because removing the hump reduces the profile and can make the nose look shorter.
Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?
Tell us your goals, budget and travel dates. Our English-speaking coordinators compare doctor-led clinics and usually reply with free quotes within 24 hours.