Dr Thomas Colson Rhinoplasty · Abu Dhabi
Rhinoplasty Technique · SKMC Abu Dhabi

Structural Rhinoplasty

Structural rhinoplasty rebuilds the nose with a stable cartilage framework to define the tip, support the airway and correct deviation. Dr Thomas Colson uses this approach at SKMC for thick skin, complex tips and revision cases.

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Written by Dr Thomas Colson, Head of the Department of Plastic Surgery, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), Abu Dhabi · Double board-certified (SOFCPRE, EBOPRAS) · Last reviewed June 2026
The Concept

Building a stable framework for definition

Structural rhinoplasty rebuilds the architecture of the nose rather than simply reducing it. Dr Thomas Colson constructs a stable framework using cartilage grafts — taken from the septum or, when more support is needed, the rib — to define the tip, support the airway and correct deviation.

This is the approach of choice for patients requiring meaningful tip refinement, projection changes, correction of a crooked nose, or revision of a previous operation. It gives the surgeon precise control over the final shape.

Middle Eastern rhinoplasty

Thick skin — common across Middle Eastern and many ethnic noses — needs strong underlying support to reveal definition. Without a robust cartilage framework the tip can look undefined or bulbous, which is why a structural approach is so often the right choice in the UAE.

Indications

When structural rhinoplasty is the right choice

  • Thick or sebaceous nasal skin needing strong support for definition
  • A wide, droopy, under-projected or poorly defined tip
  • A markedly crooked or deviated nose
  • Revision of a previous rhinoplasty with lost support
  • Reconstruction after trauma affecting the nasal framework

Where the loss of support follows an injury, the elective treatment of post-traumatic sequelae is set out on the page for facial reconstruction at SKMC. Structural rhinoplasty is also part of facial aesthetic surgery at SKMC.

Form and Function Together

Breathing is part of the plan

Every structural rhinoplasty includes a functional assessment. A deviated septum (corrected by septoplasty) or enlarged turbinates (turbinate reduction) can be addressed in the same operation, so the rebuilt nose breathes as well as it looks. Where a clear medical indication for obstruction exists, this functional component may be eligible for Daman or Thiqa coverage within the SEHA network — confirmed individually at consultation.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

How does Dr Colson handle thick skin in rhinoplasty?
Thick nasal skin can hide surgical refinements, so it needs a strong framework underneath to show definition. Dr Colson uses structural rhinoplasty to build a stable cartilage scaffold — from the septum or, when more support is required, the rib — that holds the tip projected and defined as the thick soft-tissue envelope heals over it. This is a common requirement for many Middle Eastern noses.
When is structural rhinoplasty better than preservation?
Structural rhinoplasty is the method of choice when the goal involves significant tip refinement or rotation, correction of a marked deviation, rebuilding support, or revising a previous operation. Where preservation simply lowers an intact bridge, structural rhinoplasty rebuilds and reinforces the framework, giving the control needed for more complex changes.
Where is the cartilage taken from?
The first choice is the patient's own nasal septum, which provides straight, strong cartilage with no extra incision. When more material is needed — often in revision cases or very thick skin — Dr Colson may use rib cartilage. The source is planned and discussed before surgery during the SKMC consultation.
Does structural rhinoplasty leave a visible scar?
Structural work is usually performed through an open approach, with a small incision across the columella (the strip of skin between the nostrils). Once healed, this incision is typically discreet and well-concealed under the nose. Any incisions inside the nostrils are not externally visible.
Can structural rhinoplasty correct a previous nose job?
Yes. Revision rhinoplasty is one of the main indications for a structural approach, because previous surgery often weakens or removes supporting cartilage. Dr Colson rebuilds the missing framework with grafts to restore both shape and function. Revision cases are more complex and are planned carefully with 3D imaging.
Sheikh Khalifa Medical City

Plan Your Rhinoplasty Consultation

Consultations and surgery with Dr Thomas Colson are performed exclusively at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) in Abu Dhabi, within the SEHA network. A pre-operative Crisalix 3D simulation lets patients preview the planned nasal profile before deciding.

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LocationKaramah Street, Al Tibbiya, Abu Dhabi
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