Treatment Overview
A Septal Extension Graft in Korea is a specialized cartilage grafting technique in rhinoplasty where a cartilage piece (usually harvested from the nasal septum, ear, or rib) is used to extend and support the nasal septum. This procedure provides strong structural reinforcement, helping to improve nasal tip projection, rotation, and overall stability. Korean plastic surgeons are globally recognized for their mastery in this technique, combining precision grafting with advanced suturing methods to create natural, balanced, and long-lasting results.
Purpose & Benefits
- Provides strong support for the nasal tip, preventing drooping or collapse.
- Corrects short noses by lengthening and projecting the tip.
- Enhances nasal symmetry and stability.
- Reduces risk of long-term nasal deformity caused by weak cartilage.
- Essential for revision rhinoplasty where septal support is compromised.
- Achieves a natural and refined nasal profile without overuse of synthetic implants.
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with a short or upturned nose seeking lengthening.
- Those requiring stable nasal tip projection and rotation.
- Individuals with weak cartilage structure or loss of septal support.
- Revision rhinoplasty patients who experienced tip drooping or collapse.
- Men and women looking for long-lasting, natural, and strong nasal structure.
Possible Risks & Complications
- Swelling and bruising in the early recovery stage.
- Temporary nasal stiffness due to graft support.
- Over-projection or unnatural stiffness (rare in skilled hands).
- Graft displacement or absorption (very rare).
- Donor site discomfort (ear or rib cartilage, if used).
Surgical Techniques Used
- Harvesting Cartilage: Septal cartilage is preferred; ear or rib cartilage may be used for larger grafts.
- Precise Fixation: The graft is sutured securely to the native septum for stability.
- Tip Support: Provides a stable foundation for tip shaping, projection, and rotation.
- Korean Advanced Technique: Surgeons often use 3D imaging and precise suturing methods to ensure natural results and prevent tip rigidity.
- Hybrid Approaches: Sometimes combined with shield grafts or spreader grafts for enhanced refinement.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Initial recovery: 7–10 days for swelling and bruising to subside.
- Stitches/Splints: Usually removed within 5–7 days.
- Downtime: Most patients resume daily activities after 1–2 weeks.
- Aftercare in Korea:
- Cold compresses for swelling reduction.
- Gentle nasal irrigation to prevent infection.
- Regular follow-ups with the surgeon.
- Scar management for open rhinoplasty approaches.
Results & Longevity
- Stable and permanent results due to strong cartilage support.
- Improved tip projection and rotation with minimal risk of drooping.
- Natural nasal appearance that maintains shape over time.
- Results generally last a lifetime, especially when rib or strong septal cartilage is used.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is highly regarded for Septal Extension Graft rhinoplasty because of:
- Precision Techniques: Korean surgeons are globally known for natural yet defined nasal tip results.
- Cartilage Expertise: Strong focus on cartilage grafting rather than relying only on synthetic implants.
- Advanced Imaging & Planning: 3D simulations allow patients to preview potential results.
- Revision-Friendly Methods: Korea is a global hub for revision rhinoplasty, making septal extension grafts a common and refined procedure.
- Patient-Centered Care: Multilingual staff, medical tourism support, and customized aftercare programs for international patients.
Why Korea is a Top Destination:
- High success rates with minimal complications.
- Innovative grafting techniques ensuring durability.
- Surgeons with extensive experience in both aesthetic and reconstructive nasal surgery.
- State-of-the-art clinics equipped with advanced surgical technology.
Cost Range
The cost of Septal Extension Graft in Korea varies by clinic and case complexity:
- Basic Septal Extension Graft: ₩5,500,000 – ₩8,000,000 KRW ($4,200 – $6,200 USD)
- With Tip Refinement/Shield Graft: ₩8,000,000 – ₩11,000,000 KRW ($6,200 – $8,500 USD)
- Revision Cases with Rib Cartilage: ₩12,000,000 – ₩16,000,000 KRW ($9,200 – $12,300 USD)
Inclusions:
- Surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, and hospital facilities
- Post-operative care and follow-ups
- Additional graft harvesting (if required)
- Medical tourism packages (translation, accommodation, transport) available at many clinics
Popular Clinics in Korea
- ID Hospital (Gangnam, Seoul): Famous for complex grafting and revision rhinoplasty.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Expertise in natural-looking septal extension grafts.
- View Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Advanced 3D imaging and custom graft design.
- DA Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Known for strong yet natural nasal framework reconstruction.
- JK Plastic Surgery Center (Seoul): JCI-accredited, with premium medical tourism services.
