PollyBeak Deformity

Pollybeak deformity is the term used to describe a nose which appears parrot beak-like in shape. This occurs if there is fullness in the supratip, the portion of the nose just above the tip. The fullness can be the result of a septum which is left too high at that point. Alternatively if the septum is lowered too far, there is a dead space where excessive scar tissue can form. The supratip fullness can also result from abnormally shaped lower lateral cartilages as well.

Some degree of fullness in the supratip is normal and can be expected for several weeks to months following rhinoplasty. The supratip tends to stay swollen the longest following nasal surgery and this temporary fullness or swelling can be reduced with Kenalog (steroid) injections or taping the nose.

However, fullness present for greater than a year following rhinoplasty is unlikely to resolve on its own and would likely require revision rhinoplasty. Correction of this issue may require reconstruction of the bridge portion of the septum or shaving it down further if it were inadequately reduced during the previous surgery. If the issue is related to the shape of the tip cartilages, the cartilages can be reshaped with a combination of suture techniques and conservative trimming.

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