Treatment Overview
Open revision rhinoplasty is a secondary or corrective nose surgery performed through an external incision on the columella (the skin between the nostrils). This approach provides surgeons with direct visibility and access to the nasal structures, making it ideal for complex revision cases where precision and structural reconstruction are required.
In Korea, open revision rhinoplasty is widely performed for patients who are unsatisfied with previous rhinoplasty outcomes, suffer from functional problems, or experience complications such as implant extrusion, asymmetry, or structural collapse. Korean surgeons are internationally recognized for their meticulous techniques, combining reconstructive expertise with natural, refined aesthetics.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of open revision rhinoplasty is to correct both functional and cosmetic issues after a previous nose surgery. Benefits include:
- Direct access to nasal structures for more precise corrections.
- Improved ability to handle complex or severe deformities.
- Correcting implant-related problems such as shifting, extrusion, or contracture.
- Rebuilding collapsed bridges or tips with grafting.
- Enhancing breathing function by repairing internal valves or septal issues.
- Achieving natural, symmetrical, and long-lasting results.
Ideal Candidates
Open Revision Rhinoplasty in Korea is suitable for individuals who:
- Are unsatisfied with the results of a prior rhinoplasty.
- Have functional issues such as nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing.
- Experience implant-related complications or graft absorption.
- Require significant structural reconstruction or reshaping.
- Understand that revision surgeries are more complex and have realistic expectations.
Possible Risks & Complications
As with all complex revision surgeries, potential risks include:
- More visible swelling and longer healing time compared to closed revision.
- Small external scar on the columella (usually minimal and fades well).
- Breathing issues if structures are not properly reinforced.
- Graft-related problems such as absorption or warping.
- Asymmetry or over/under-correction of nasal shape.
- Rare cases requiring further revision.
Surgical Techniques Used
Korean surgeons use advanced reconstructive and aesthetic techniques during open revision rhinoplasty, such as:
- Cartilage Grafting: Using septal (if available), ear, or rib cartilage for support.
- Implant Removal/Replacement: Correcting problematic implants with safer alternatives.
- Tip Reconstruction: Rebuilding collapsed or irregular tips with cartilage and suturing techniques.
- Bridge Correction: Raising or reshaping the nasal bridge with cartilage or implants.
- Valve Repair: Reinforcing weakened internal or external nasal valves to improve breathing.
- Scar Tissue Management: Removing or adjusting internal scar tissue for smoother results.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Swelling & Bruising: More pronounced than closed approaches but subsides significantly within 2–4 weeks.
- Splints & Dressings: External splint worn for 1–2 weeks; internal supports may be placed temporarily.
- Downtime: Most patients resume light activities after 10–14 days.
- Final Results: Refined appearance and improved function stabilize over 6–12 months.
- Aftercare in Korea: Clinics offer anti-swelling injections, LED light therapy, scar management, and regular follow-up imaging.
Results & Longevity
Open revision rhinoplasty provides stable, long-lasting outcomes. Because this approach allows direct visualization, surgeons can achieve greater precision, especially in difficult revision cases. Results in Korea are known for being natural, functional, and harmonized with the patient’s overall facial features.
Treatment Process in Korea
1. Consultation
- Detailed evaluation with 3D imaging and nasal endoscopy.
- Review of past surgeries and planning for structural reconstruction.
2. Pre-Surgery Care
- Full health check and nasal function tests.
- Planning includes preparation for cartilage graft harvest (ear or rib if needed).
3. Surgery
- Performed under general anesthesia.
- Duration: 3–6 hours, depending on complexity.
- External incision made along the columella for full access.
4. Immediate Post-Surgery Care
- Patients monitored in recovery.
- Splints and protective dressings applied.
5. Follow-Up & Aftercare
- Clinics provide scar-prevention therapy, anti-swelling treatments, and functional breathing assessments.
- International patients receive comprehensive medical tourism support, including interpreters, transport, and extended aftercare programs.
Why Korea?
- High-Level Expertise: Korean surgeons are globally trusted for complex revision cases requiring precision.
- Direct Access with Precision: The open technique allows more accurate corrections than closed approaches.
- Natural Results: Focus on harmony, subtle refinement, and balanced outcomes.
- Comprehensive Medical Tourism: Full support packages for international patients ensure smooth treatment and recovery.
Cost Range
Open revision rhinoplasty in Korea is more costly than closed revisions due to its complexity and longer surgery time.
- General Price Range: ₩8,000,000 – ₩18,000,000 KRW (approx. $6,400 – $14,400 USD).
- Basic Packages Include: Surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, surgery, and follow-up visits.
- Premium Packages May Include:
- Rib or ear cartilage harvesting
- Fascia grafting for refinement
- 3D simulation and airflow analysis
- Scar-prevention and swelling-reduction therapies
- VIP recovery suites and tourism support
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Specialists in complex open revision with natural results.
- ID Hospital (Seoul): Leading in advanced reconstruction for severe nasal deformities.
- JW Plastic Surgery Clinic: Known for rib cartilage grafting and tip reconstruction.
- View Plastic Surgery Clinic: Popular for international patients with full aftercare support.
- MINE Plastic Surgery Clinic: Focused on scar management and balanced open revision results.
