Treatment Overview
The Lateral Crural Overlay is a specialized tip rhinoplasty technique designed to refine and reshape the nasal tip by adjusting the length and orientation of the lateral crura (the outer segments of the lower lateral cartilages). By overlapping and suturing part of the cartilage, surgeons can achieve better tip definition, reduced bulbosity, improved projection, and overall balance.
Korean rhinoplasty surgeons are particularly skilled in this technique, as it allows them to create natural-looking tip refinement without excessive cartilage removal.
Purpose & Benefits
- Corrects a bulbous or wide nasal tip
- Provides tip refinement and narrowing
- Enhances tip definition and projection
- Helps balance nose with other facial features
- Maintains cartilage strength while reshaping
- Can be performed as primary or revision rhinoplasty
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with a bulbous, boxy, or wide nasal tip
- Those seeking more definition without implants
- Individuals with long or overprojected tips
- Patients undergoing ethnic or revision rhinoplasty
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary swelling and bruising
- Rare risk of cartilage asymmetry
- Slight over-narrowing if excessive overlay performed
- Possible need for grafting support in complex cases
Surgical Techniques Used
- Lateral Crural Overlay – trimming, overlapping, and suturing the lateral crura to shorten and refine the tip.
- Often combined with:
- Dome Binding Sutures for narrowing
- Interdomal Sutures for symmetry
- Columella Strut Graft for tip support
- Alar Base Reduction for nostril balance
- Typically performed using the open rhinoplasty approach for precise visualization.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Downtime: 7–10 days for initial swelling reduction
- Stitch Removal: 5–7 days post-op
- Healing Time: Final tip definition visible after 6–12 months
- Aftercare: Avoid glasses, direct pressure, and follow clinic-provided aftercare instructions
Results & Longevity
- Produces a refined, slimmer, and balanced nasal tip
- Long-lasting, as the technique reshapes cartilage structurally
- Results remain stable unless further trauma or surgery occurs
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea offers one of the most advanced rhinoplasty systems for patients undergoing lateral crural overlay:
- Pre-Consultation – Photo analysis & online consultation for foreign patients
- In-Clinic Consultation – 3D imaging and nasal structure analysis
- Customized Surgical Plan – Surgeon designs tip correction (overlay + possible grafts)
- Pre-Surgery Checkup – Health screening and anesthesia preparation
- Surgery (1.5–3 hours) – Lateral Crural Overlay performed, often with supporting sutures/grafts
- Immediate Recovery – Nose supported with splint or tape
- Follow-Up – Removal of stitches and swelling checks within 5–7 days
- Final Results – Natural and refined tip visible progressively over 6–12 months
Cost Range in Korea
The cost of Lateral Crural Overlay in Korea varies depending on case complexity and additional techniques:
- Basic Tip Refinement with Overlay:
₩4,000,000 – ₩6,000,000 KRW ($3,000 – $4,600 USD) - Overlay + Additional Sutures/Grafts:
₩6,000,000 – ₩8,500,000 KRW ($4,600 – $6,500 USD) - Complex/Revision Cases:
₩8,500,000 – ₩12,000,000 KRW ($6,500 – $9,200 USD)
💡 International Patient Packages usually range from ₩5,500,000 – ₩8,000,000 KRW ($4,200 – $6,200 USD), often including translation services, transportation, and aftercare support.
Popular Clinics for Lateral Crural Overlay in Korea
- ID Hospital (Seoul, Gangnam) – advanced in tip reshaping surgeries
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – strong reputation for natural aesthetics
- View Plastic Surgery – specializes in refined tip work with overlay techniques
- JW Plastic Surgery – experienced in revision and structural rhinoplasty
- April31 Plastic Surgery – known for elegant, subtle nose refinements
- DA Plastic Surgery – popular among international patients with VIP aftercare
