Treatment Overview
Lateral Crural Graft in Korea is a specialized rhinoplasty procedure aimed at reinforcing or reshaping the lateral crura—the outer portions of the lower lateral cartilage that define the nasal tip and nostril shape. This graft is often used to correct weak or collapsed cartilage, enhance tip definition, or address functional issues such as nasal valve collapse. Korean surgeons are highly skilled in precise grafting techniques, ensuring both aesthetic and functional improvements while preserving natural nasal contours.
Purpose & Benefits
- Strengthens the lateral crura for improved tip stability and projection.
- Corrects nasal valve collapse and improves airflow.
- Enhances tip definition and nostril shape.
- Reduces the risk of post-surgical tip or ala collapse.
- Provides long-lasting structural and aesthetic improvements while maintaining natural nasal appearance.
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with weak, drooping, or collapsed lateral crura.
- Individuals with nasal valve collapse or breathing difficulties.
- Patients who have undergone previous rhinoplasty and require reinforcement.
- Men or women seeking improved tip support and nostril shape.
- Those in good health with realistic expectations about functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Possible Risks & Complications
While complications are rare in Korea with skilled surgeons, potential risks include:
- Temporary swelling and bruising
- Minor asymmetry or irregular tip contour
- Infection (rare with strict surgical hygiene)
- Graft displacement or resorption
- Rare need for revision surgery for complex or revision cases
Surgical Techniques Used
Korean surgeons employ advanced methods for lateral crural grafting:
- Autologous Cartilage Harvesting: Cartilage is taken from the septum, ear, or rib depending on patient needs.
- Lateral Crural Placement: Grafts are carefully positioned to reinforce or reshape the lateral crura.
- Tip and Valve Support: Can be combined with columellar strut or extended tip grafts for overall tip stability.
- Combined Aesthetic Procedures: Often performed with alar base adjustment or bridge augmentation for balanced results.
- Korean Precision Approach: Focused on symmetry, natural aesthetics, and long-term structural integrity.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Downtime: 7–10 days for initial recovery; swelling may persist for 2–4 weeks.
- Stitch Removal: Typically 5–7 days post-surgery.
- Aftercare: Avoid trauma, strenuous activity, and smoking.
- Korean clinics provide structured post-operative care including:
- Swelling reduction therapy
- Gentle massage to maintain graft position
- Laser therapy for minimal scarring
- Regular follow-ups to monitor tip support and nasal valve function
Results & Longevity
- Permanent reinforcement and reshaping of the lateral crura.
- Improved nasal tip projection, nostril shape, and airflow.
- Natural-looking results suitable for masculine or feminine aesthetics.
- Full outcomes visible after swelling subsides (2–3 months), with long-term stability.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is globally recognized for cartilage graft rhinoplasty, including lateral crural grafts:
- 3D Imaging & Pre-Surgery Planning: Patients can visualize realistic post-surgery outcomes.
- Precision Cartilage Placement: Minimally invasive methods ensure optimal support with minimal donor site morbidity.
- Gender-Specific Design: Maintains male or female nasal aesthetics while improving structural stability.
- Comprehensive Post-Operative Care: Includes swelling management, functional assessment, and follow-ups to ensure optimal results.
Why Korea is a Top Destination:
- Highly experienced surgeons specializing in cartilage graft rhinoplasty.
- Advanced techniques for precise placement and long-term durability.
- Integration of functional and aesthetic improvements in a single procedure.
- Medical tourism support including translators, accommodation, and airport assistance.
Cost Range
The cost of Lateral Crural Graft in Korea depends on complexity:
- Tip-Only or Minor Lateral Crural Grafting: ₩3,500,000 – ₩6,000,000 KRW ($2,600 – $4,600 USD)
- Combined Procedures (Tip + Bridge + Columellar Strut): ₩6,000,000 – ₩9,500,000 KRW ($4,600 – $7,300 USD)
- Complex Revision or Multi-Site Grafting: ₩9,500,000 – ₩15,000,000 KRW ($7,300 – $11,500 USD)
Inclusions:
- Surgeon’s fee and anesthesia
- Clinic or hospital facilities
- Post-operative care and follow-ups
- Optional medical tourism packages including accommodation and translation
Popular Clinics in Korea
- ID Hospital (Gangnam, Seoul): Expert in lateral crural grafts with natural tip and nostril outcomes.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Specializes in male and female tip support and lateral crural reinforcement.
- View Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Advanced 3D imaging and cartilage grafting for optimal symmetry and stability.
- DA Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Focused on structural reinforcement while maintaining natural aesthetics.
- JK Plastic Surgery (Seoul): JCI-accredited clinic with high international patient satisfaction and safety.
