Treatment Overview
Preservation Rhinoplasty is an advanced nose reshaping technique that focuses on preserving the natural nasal structures rather than removing or aggressively altering them. Instead of traditional hump removal or extensive cartilage resection, surgeons lift and reshape the nasal framework while maintaining the dorsum (bridge) and tip cartilage integrity.
In Korea, preservation rhinoplasty has become a highly sought-after procedure because it provides natural-looking results, minimizes trauma, and reduces the risk of long-term complications. Korean surgeons are recognized for mastering this approach with refined surgical precision, ensuring patients achieve harmonious, stable, and lasting outcomes with less swelling and faster recovery.
Purpose & Benefits
The main goal of preservation rhinoplasty is to refine the nasal shape while maintaining as much of the natural structure as possible. Benefits include:
- Natural-looking nasal profile without an artificial or “overdone” appearance.
- Preservation of cartilage and bone reduces long-term collapse or irregularities.
- Less trauma leads to faster healing and less swelling.
- Maintains structural strength for long-lasting results.
- Can address both dorsal hump and tip refinement.
- Improves facial harmony without drastic changes.
Ideal Candidates
Preservation rhinoplasty in Korea is suitable for patients who:
- Have a dorsal hump or irregular nasal bridge but want a natural correction.
- Desire subtle, elegant improvements rather than dramatic changes.
- Are concerned about the long-term stability of traditional rhinoplasty.
- Want a faster recovery with minimal trauma.
- Have not undergone multiple previous rhinoplasties (best for primary cases).
- Are in good overall health with realistic expectations.
Possible Risks & Complications
While safer and less invasive than traditional approaches, risks may include:
- Residual hump if the preservation is not sufficient.
- Asymmetry in the bridge or tip contour.
- Swelling that may take a few months to fully resolve.
- Rare cases of revision if subtle irregularities remain.
- Slight limitations in very complex or severely deviated noses.
Surgical Techniques Used
Korean surgeons use advanced preservation rhinoplasty techniques that prioritize maintaining the natural nasal structure:
- Push-Down Technique: The nasal dorsum is lowered while keeping the cartilage and bone intact.
- Let-Down Technique: Small portions of bone are removed to adjust the dorsum without major resection.
- Dorsal Preservation: Instead of shaving the hump, surgeons maintain the natural bridge while repositioning structures.
- Tip Preservation & Refinement: Minimal cartilage trimming with suturing techniques (transdomal or interdomal) for definition.
- Septal Adjustments: Straightening while preserving support for long-term stability.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Initial Healing: Swelling and bruising are generally milder than in traditional rhinoplasty.
- Stitches & Splints: Removed within 5–7 days.
- Downtime: Patients can resume normal activities in 7–10 days.
- Final Results: Seen gradually over 3–6 months as swelling subsides.
- Aftercare in Korea: Clinics provide advanced therapies such as LED light treatment, herbal anti-swelling remedies, and laser scar care to enhance recovery.
Results & Longevity
Preservation rhinoplasty in Korea provides long-lasting and stable outcomes since the natural structures are maintained rather than weakened. The nose retains its natural strength, preventing collapse or excessive scarring over time. Patients typically enjoy a refined, balanced, and elegant appearance that blends seamlessly with their facial features.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korean clinics are globally recognized for combining preservation rhinoplasty with state-of-the-art medical technology and artistry.
Consultation:
- 3D imaging and facial ratio analysis.
- Detailed planning for subtle refinements rather than dramatic changes.
Pre-Surgery Care:
- Comprehensive health check and anesthesia planning.
- Personalized strategy to determine whether push-down or let-down technique is better.
Surgery:
- Performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
- Duration: 1.5–3 hours depending on complexity.
- Use of micro-instruments for high precision with minimal trauma.
Post-Surgery Care:
- Specialized swelling reduction and scar prevention therapies.
- Follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.
- English-speaking support staff for international patients.
Why Korea?
- Surgeons are highly skilled in delicate preservation techniques that require advanced training.
- Results emphasize natural elegance, minimal trauma, and faster recovery.
- Clinics offer comprehensive medical tourism services including translation, recovery packages, and aftercare support.
Cost Range
The cost of preservation rhinoplasty in Korea varies depending on complexity, surgeon expertise, and clinic reputation.
- General Price Range: ₩6,000,000 – ₩13,000,000 KRW (approx. $4,600 – $10,000 USD).
- Basic Packages Include: Consultation, anesthesia, surgery, and routine postoperative care.
- Premium Packages May Include:
- 3D imaging and digital simulation.
- Advanced swelling and scar management therapies.
- VIP recovery rooms and luxury aftercare.
- Full international patient support services.
Compared to Western countries, Korea offers more competitive prices and superior refinement techniques, making it a leading destination for preservation rhinoplasty.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery Clinic (Seoul): Specialized in natural refinement with preservation methods.
- ID Hospital (Seoul): Known for complex nasal reshaping with minimal trauma.
- JW Plastic Surgery Clinic: Offers advanced preservation rhinoplasty with long-lasting outcomes.
- View Plastic Surgery Clinic: Popular among international patients for subtle, elegant results.
- MINE Plastic Surgery Clinic: Focuses on scar-minimizing and structural preservation techniques.
