Medical Information

A survey published several years ago reported that 40% of people in their twenties had experienced plastic surgery or cosmetic procedures.

Since then, the number of plastic surgery procedures has increased even further, and it is now considered a way to help resolve external complexes or improve specific bodily functions.

Among various areas such as the eyes, nose, chin, and forehead, the nose is an organ where even a small change can lead to significant improvements in appearance,

ranking right behind the eyes in terms of the number of surgeries performed.

Located in the center of the face, the nose determines one's overall impression and aura depending on its shape, angle, and height.

This is because even with the same face shape, depending on the shape of the nose, a face can look slimmer or convey a sharper, softer image.

On the other hand, rhinoplasty is also cited as a plastic surgery with high rates of dissatisfaction and revision surgeries.

Because it is located right in the center of the face, if the surgical outcome is poor, patient satisfaction drops far more drastically compared to other areas.

Experts emphasize that caution is necessary, as there are many cases where patients undergo rhinoplasty revisions multiple times.

The primary reason for revision rhinoplasty is dissatisfaction with the results—such as when the nose is too high or too low. The next leading cause is surgical complications.

Examples of side effects include inflammation caused by artificial implants failing to settle properly, as well as contracture (capsular contracture), where tissue hardens due to irritation from surgery or scarring.

Other issues include implants becoming visible through the skin, implant shifting, or deformation.

Plastic surgeons emphasize that the top priority in revision rhinoplasty is identifying the cause of dissatisfaction or failure after the first surgery.

According to Dr. Kim Sung-hoon, Chief Director of SH Plastic Surgery, revision rhinoplasty has a higher level of difficulty than the primary surgery,

so both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the nose must be considered much more thoroughly.

This is why a process is required to analyze the shape, condition, and size of the nasal bones and surrounding soft tissues using 3D-CT (computed tomography) scans,

and to closely inspect the condition of the nose for issues such as contracture and inflammation.

To increase satisfaction after revision surgery and reduce the incidence of side effects, one must also be cautious in selecting materials.

Since various materials are used in rhinoplasty, including cartilage (ear cartilage, septal cartilage, costal cartilage), dermofat, silicone, Gore-Tex, and AlloDerm,

it is essential to carefully determine their suitability for the patient.

Dr. Kim advises, "Because the nose is located in the center of the face, a natural design that fits the facial proportions is crucial for rhinoplasty,

and for revision surgery as well, a systematic surgical plan must be established to improve both aesthetic and functional aspects."

He also adds that if one is planning a revision surgery, it is advisable to proceed only after monitoring progress for about six months following the initial surgery.

Source: Medical Tribune (http://www.medical-tribune.co.kr)