Revision rhinoplasty

This revision rhinoplasty event is for anyone who isn't happy with the results of a previous nose job, or who has developed deformities or discomfort over time. It's not just about changing the shape. The clinic first analyzes what went wrong with the previous surgery, then redesigns the nose from the structure up, taking into account weakened tissue and the limits of the earlier surgery.

Who it's for

• You're not happy with the shape after your first rhinoplasty
• Over time you've developed deformities like asymmetry or contracture (where scar tissue hardens and the nose tip gets pulled up or shortened)
• You have functional issues such as nasal congestion
• Your implant shows through, looks crooked or moves
• Your nose tip has drooped or looks pinched, and you want this to be your final surgery

How it's done

1. Assessment and cause analysisThe surgeon checks the materials used in your previous surgery and the current state of your nose, then pinpoints the cause of any dissatisfaction with the shape, asymmetry, contracture or functional issues. You'll get an honest explanation of what can and can't be fixed, and if something is difficult, you'll be guided toward realistic alternatives.
2. RedesignIn most cases, previously used cartilage can't be reused, so the plan calls for different materials. If the nose needs more structural support, rib cartilage, the strongest option, may be used. Materials are decided after the consultation.
3. SurgeryIn a nose that's already been operated on, the internal tissue is heavily adhered, so just separating the tissue takes a long time. Depending on your condition, the contracted tissue is released and the skin is stretched, then a new support structure is built to redesign the tip cartilage. If the tip has drooped, a vertical strut made of sturdy cartilage is placed and fixed.
4. Correcting implant problemsIf the implant looks crooked, the surface that sits against the bone is trimmed and the pocket is widened so it settles in the center. If it shows through, the implant is swapped for one of a suitable thickness, or covered with autologous or donor dermis to reinforce the skin.

What's included

• 1 revision rhinoplasty

Price includes VAT and applies during the clinic's event period. Revision costs can vary depending on the materials used and the extent of surgery needed, so the final price is confirmed at your consultation.

From surgery day to recovery

1. Before surgeryYour previous surgical records and current condition are reviewed, and the materials and surgical method are decided.
2. Surgery dayThe final design is confirmed before surgery. The anesthesia method is explained at your consultation.
3. Right after surgeryYou'll have swelling and bruising, with more swelling inside the nose. The nasal packing usually stays in for about 3 days, and you shouldn't touch the inside of your nose during this time.
4. Around 2 weeksThis is generally when the major swelling goes down. The inside of your nose is checked at your follow-up.
5. 1–2 monthsNasal congestion often lasts a month or two before improving. It takes longer for the nose to fully settle, and your progress is checked at follow-up consultations.

Aftercare

• The clinic runs a program for swelling management, infection prevention and scar care.
• Patients are advised to avoid smoking for at least 2 weeks and drinking for about a month after surgery.

Surgeon and clinic

Board-certified plastic surgeon and head director Dr. Lee Hee-young personally handles both consultations and surgery. The clinic states that he is a member of the Korean Rhinoplasty Research Society and the Korean Society of Craniofacial Surgery, and has handled many types of revision surgery, including bulbous noses and contracted noses. Surgeries are performed under a surgeon real-name system, with no ghost surgery. Consultations are available in Japanese; for other languages, please ask when booking. The clinic is about 300 m from Exit 3 of Apgujeong Station.

Side effects and precautions

• Revision surgery is more difficult than a first surgery, and since previous materials are hard to reuse, your choice of materials may be limited.
• Bleeding, infection or inflammation may occur after surgery. If bright red blood keeps running down your throat or a nosebleed won't stop, contact the clinic right away.
• If one side stays soft and swollen, or the tip or bridge turns red even after 2 weeks, it could be an implant reaction or a hematoma, so you should visit the clinic.
• If rib cartilage is used, a small scar will remain below the chest, and there may be pain at the harvest site.
• Not every change is possible. It's important to confirm exactly what's achievable at your consultation.

FAQ