Treatment Overview
Augmentation Rhinoplasty, also known as nose augmentation surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the height, projection, and definition of the nasal bridge and tip. It is especially popular among patients with a low nasal bridge, flat nose contour, or lack of projection, which is common among Asian patients seeking more defined facial harmony.
In Korea, augmentation rhinoplasty is performed using advanced techniques and materials such as silicone implants, Gore-Tex, autologous cartilage (from septum, ear, or rib), or a combination of these. Korean surgeons are world-renowned for creating natural, elegant, and balanced results that avoid the artificial “implant look” of older methods.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of augmentation rhinoplasty is to enhance nasal projection and balance overall facial proportions. Benefits include:
- Creates a higher and more defined nasal bridge.
- Provides a sharper, more elegant nose contour.
- Improves tip projection and refinement.
- Balances the nose with the forehead, eyes, and chin.
- Enhances facial harmony without looking overdone.
- Long-lasting results with minimal scarring.
Ideal Candidates
Augmentation Rhinoplasty is suitable for individuals who:
- Have a low or flat nasal bridge.
- Desire increased height and definition of the nose.
- Want a more refined and harmonious profile.
- Are in good overall health with realistic expectations.
- May have had a previous rhinoplasty and need revision or enhancement.
Possible Risks & Complications
Though considered safe when performed by skilled Korean surgeons, risks may include:
- Swelling and bruising after surgery.
- Implant shifting or extrusion (rare with advanced methods).
- Infection at the implant or graft site.
- Scarring (minimized with hidden incision techniques).
- Asymmetry if healing is uneven.
Surgical Techniques Used
Korean surgeons use a combination of implants and cartilage grafts to achieve natural outcomes. Techniques include:
- Silicone Implants: Most commonly used, customized for height and shape.
- Gore-Tex Implants: Provide a softer, more natural integration with tissues.
- Autologous Cartilage Grafting: Harvested from the septum, ear, or rib for tip and bridge refinement.
- Hybrid Techniques: Combining implants for the bridge with cartilage grafts for the tip.
- Scar-Minimizing Incisions: Typically made inside the nostrils for invisible results.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Swelling and bruising subside within 1–2 weeks.
- Stitches are removed within 5–7 days.
- Patients can return to work in about 7–10 days.
- Final refined results are visible after 2–3 months once swelling settles.
- Korean clinics provide aftercare programs, including swelling reduction treatments and scar care.
Results & Longevity
The results of augmentation rhinoplasty are long-lasting and natural-looking. Implants and cartilage grafts maintain their shape for many years, and with proper surgical technique, complications are rare. Korean surgeons excel at creating a refined but natural bridge and tip that harmonizes with the patient’s overall features.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is considered one of the top destinations for augmentation rhinoplasty due to its specialized surgical expertise and advanced medical facilities.
Consultation
- Surgeons use 3D facial imaging to design a nose shape that complements the patient’s facial balance.
Pre-Surgery Care
- Includes detailed medical evaluation and surgical planning tailored to individual goals.
Surgery
- Performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
- Typically takes 1–2 hours, depending on the complexity.
Post-Surgery Care
- Korean clinics offer LED therapy, anti-swelling treatments, and scar management for optimal recovery.
Why Korea?
- Korean surgeons are globally respected for their ability to achieve subtle, natural, and elegant results.
- Clinics cater to international patients with English-speaking staff, medical tourism packages, and personalized aftercare.
Cost Range
The cost of Augmentation Rhinoplasty in Korea depends on implant type, grafting methods, and clinic reputation.
- General Price Range: ₩4,000,000 – ₩10,000,000 KRW (approx. $3,200 – $8,000 USD).
- Basic Packages Include: Consultation, anesthesia, surgery, and standard postoperative care.
- Premium Packages May Include: VIP recovery rooms, translators, customized implants, rib cartilage harvest, and extended aftercare.
Korea offers competitive pricing compared to Western countries, with equally or higher surgical standards.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery Clinic (Seoul): Specializes in natural augmentation with hybrid implant-cartilage methods.
- ID Hospital (Seoul): One of the largest rhinoplasty centers, offering advanced implant customization.
- JW Plastic Surgery Clinic: Renowned for cartilage-based augmentation for natural, long-lasting results.
- View Plastic Surgery Clinic: Focuses on scar-minimizing and swelling reduction methods.
- MINE Plastic Surgery Clinic: Popular among international patients for safe, natural-looking augmentation.
