As the Ethnic population in the United States is increasing, Dr. Rizk does a lot of rhinoplasty on patients who are ethnic (Asian, Middle Eastern, African American, Latino/Hispanic) with thick skin as well as some Caucasian patients with thick skin. Patients with thick skin on their nose and large pores can obtain an excellent reduction in most cases with the use of grafts, implants, as well as 3D defatting of the nasal tip. Dr. Sam Rizk states that ear cartilage is too soft and weak to be able to define the nasal tip (but it can be used for other types of grafts in the nose). Far superior and stronger grafts include the septum or rib.
Medpor is also an excellent implant for defining the nasal tip and bridge and it does not resorb with time and integrates well with the nose. Dr. Rizk custom sculpts the Medpor implant to fit your nose during your procedure, It is not a one-size-fits-all implant. Rib cartilage is also adequate in strength but may warp and absorb slightly with time. Dr. Rizk does not like silicone implants in the nose because they do not integrate well and move with time. Dr. Rizk has come across a few patients with thick skin whom he could not help with a standard rhinoplasty and who had a condition known as rhinophyma and these patients required further treatment with laser to shrink the skin and pores.