Treatment Overview
Cephalic Trim is a specialized Tip Rhinoplasty technique where the excess lower lateral (alar) cartilage is carefully trimmed and reshaped to refine a bulbous or overly wide nasal tip. In Korea, this method is highly advanced, performed by skilled surgeons who balance precise trimming with preservation of nasal support. The result is a more defined, slimmer, and aesthetically proportionate nose tip without compromising function.
Purpose & Benefits
- Refines bulbous or thick nasal tips
- Enhances tip definition and tip rotation
- Reduces excessive roundness for a sharper, natural look
- Can be combined with suture techniques or grafting for improved results
- Maintains nasal support to prevent collapse or long-term deformities
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with bulbous, round, or wide nasal tips
- Those with thick nasal skin and excess cartilage
- Individuals seeking refined, elegant nasal tip definition
- Patients who prefer natural enhancement without drastic changes
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or stiffness
- Slight asymmetry during healing
- Rare risk of over-resection, leading to loss of tip support
- Minor scar tissue formation inside the nose
Surgical Techniques Used
- Cephalic Trim of Lower Lateral Cartilage – carefully removes excess cartilage bulk.
- Cartilage Preservation – avoids over-trimming by maintaining structural integrity.
- Combination with Suturing (e.g., Dome Binding, Transdomal Sutures) – sharpens the nasal tip.
- Cartilage Grafts (if required) – support weaker nasal tips for long-lasting results.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Downtime: 5–7 days for swelling and bruising to reduce
- Stitch Removal: Within 5–7 days
- Healing Period: Initial shape visible in 2–3 weeks; final refinement in 6–12 months
- Aftercare: Avoid physical pressure, follow taping/splinting instructions, attend regular check-ups
Results & Longevity
- Achieves a slimmer, refined, and sharper nasal tip
- Long-lasting results if nasal structure is preserved
- Improves facial balance while maintaining a natural look
Treatment Process in Korea
- Initial Online Consultation – share medical history and nose photos with an English-speaking consultant.
- 3D Imaging & Simulation – advanced technology shows before-and-after previews.
- Customized Surgical Plan – based on cartilage thickness, skin type, and patient goals.
- Surgery Day – performed under sedation or general anesthesia; takes 1.5–2 hours.
- Post-Surgery Care – splints or tapes applied; patients usually discharged the same day.
- Follow-Up Visits – stitches removed within a week; multiple follow-ups scheduled for recovery monitoring.
- Return to Daily Life – most patients resume work and normal activities within 7–10 days.
Cost Range in Korea
The cost of Cephalic Trim in Korea depends on the complexity of correction, surgeon’s expertise, and clinic reputation. Below is a detailed breakdown:
- Basic Cephalic Trim (Cartilage Reduction Only):
₩3,000,000 – ₩4,500,000 KRW ($2,300 – $3,500 USD) - Cephalic Trim + Tip Suturing (Dome Binding / Transdomal):
₩4,500,000 – ₩6,500,000 KRW ($3,500 – $5,000 USD) - Cephalic Trim + Cartilage Grafting (For Support & Projection):
₩6,500,000 – ₩9,000,000 KRW ($5,000 – $7,000 USD)
💡 Factors Affecting Cost:
- Experience & reputation of the surgeon (premium Gangnam clinics charge more)
- Whether the surgery is primary rhinoplasty or part of a revision case
- Use of cartilage grafts (septal, ear, or rib cartilage)
- Advanced 3D simulation fees
- Clinic facilities & aftercare packages (VIP recovery rooms, medical translators, etc.)
- Combined procedures (alar reduction, dorsal augmentation, etc.)
Average International Patient Cost Package: ₩5,000,000 – ₩8,000,000 KRW ($3,900 – $6,200 USD), often including airport pickup, accommodation, and full aftercare support.
Popular Clinics for Cephalic Trim in Korea
- ID Hospital (Gangnam, Seoul) – leading for advanced nose reshaping surgeries.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – internationally recognized, offers natural and refined results.
- View Plastic Surgery – specializes in tip refinement with cartilage reshaping.
- JW Plastic Surgery – expertise in cephalic trim with preservation rhinoplasty.
- DA Plastic Surgery – trusted for international patients with structured aftercare.
- April31 Plastic Surgery – known for subtle, elegant tip refinement surgeries.
Most of these clinics provide multilingual coordinators (English, Chinese, Japanese) and VIP medical tourism packages tailored for foreign patients.
