Treatment Overview
Columellar Strut Graft in Korea is a specialized cartilage grafting procedure that focuses on supporting and defining the nasal tip by reinforcing the columella—the tissue between the nostrils. This technique stabilizes the tip, improves projection, and enhances overall nasal aesthetics. Korean surgeons are recognized worldwide for their precise grafting techniques, which ensure natural, long-lasting results while maintaining harmony with the patient’s facial features.
Purpose & Benefits
- Provides structural support to the nasal tip for enhanced projection and stability.
- Corrects drooping, weak, or poorly defined nasal tips.
- Improves tip symmetry and overall nasal balance.
- Supports long-term structural integrity, reducing the risk of post-surgical tip collapse.
- Maintains natural masculine or feminine nasal aesthetics.
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with weak, drooping, or under-projected nasal tips.
- Individuals who have undergone previous rhinoplasty with tip support issues.
- Patients seeking permanent improvement in nasal tip definition and projection.
- Men or women with asymmetrical or unstable nasal tips.
- Those in good health with realistic expectations regarding natural-looking results.
Possible Risks & Complications
Though rare in Korea when performed by experienced surgeons, potential risks include:
- Temporary swelling and bruising
- Minor asymmetry or irregular tip contour
- Infection (rare due to strict surgical hygiene)
- Graft displacement or resorption (minimized with advanced techniques)
- Rare need for revision surgery in complex or revision cases
Surgical Techniques Used
Korean surgeons employ advanced methods for columellar strut grafting:
- Autologous Cartilage Harvesting: Cartilage is typically taken from the septum, ear, or rib depending on patient requirements.
- Columellar Strut Placement: The graft is carefully positioned between the medial crura to provide tip support and projection.
- Tip Refinement Techniques: Can be combined with transdomal or interdomal suturing for enhanced tip definition.
- Combined Procedures: Often performed with bridge augmentation or alar correction for overall nasal balance.
- Korean Precision Design: Focused on natural tip aesthetics, symmetry, and long-term stability.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Downtime: 7–10 days for initial recovery; swelling may last 2–4 weeks.
- Stitch Removal: Usually after 5–7 days post-surgery.
- Aftercare: Avoid trauma to the nose, strenuous exercise, and smoking for several weeks.
- Structured post-operative programs in Korea often include:
- Swelling reduction therapy
- Gentle massage to maintain graft position
- Laser therapy for minimal scarring
- Regular follow-ups to monitor tip support and projection
Results & Longevity
- Permanent enhancement of nasal tip projection, support, and symmetry.
- Maintains natural-looking masculine or feminine nasal aesthetics.
- Final results become fully visible after swelling subsides (typically 2–3 months).
- Long-lasting outcomes when performed by skilled Korean surgeons.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is recognized globally for cartilage graft rhinoplasty, including columellar strut grafting:
- 3D Imaging & Pre-Surgery Simulation: Patients can visualize realistic post-surgery outcomes.
- Precision Cartilage Harvesting: Minimally invasive techniques reduce donor site morbidity.
- Tailored Male or Female Design: Surgeons maintain gender-appropriate nasal contours while enhancing tip support.
- Comprehensive Post-Operative Care: Clinics provide swelling management, scar reduction therapy, and regular check-ups to ensure optimal healing.
Why Korea is a Top Destination:
- Highly experienced surgeons specializing in cartilage graft techniques.
- Advanced surgical technology for precise graft placement and long-term stability.
- Natural and long-lasting results for both aesthetic and functional improvements.
- Medical tourism support including translators, accommodation, and personalized care.
Cost Range
The cost of Columellar Strut Graft in Korea depends on complexity and whether it is combined with other procedures:
- Tip-Only Columellar Strut Grafting: ₩3,500,000 – ₩6,000,000 KRW ($2,600 – $4,600 USD)
- Combined Procedures (Bridge, Alar, or Tip Refinement): ₩6,000,000 – ₩9,000,000 KRW ($4,600 – $7,000 USD)
- Complex Revision or Multi-Site Grafting: ₩9,000,000 – ₩15,000,000 KRW ($7,000 – $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 services
Popular Clinics in Korea
- ID Hospital (Gangnam, Seoul): Known for precise columellar strut grafts and natural nasal tip outcomes.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Specialized in male and female-focused tip support procedures.
- View Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Uses 3D imaging and advanced grafting techniques for optimal symmetry.
- DA Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Focused on structural reinforcement with natural aesthetics.
- JK Plastic Surgery (Seoul): JCI-accredited clinic, popular with international patients for high-quality care.
