Nasal Contracture Causes
Nasal contracture develops when scar tissue tightens the nasal framework after rhinoplasty. Scar formation, tissue remodeling, and implant-related contraction can pull on the nose and alter its shape. Insufficient blood supply during healing or inflammation can contribute to stiffening and irregular contours.
External forces and infection can worsen contracture, leading to persistent droop or a tilted profile. Understanding the root cause is essential before planning revision, as different factors require different strategies. In some cases, stem cell therapy or fat grafting may be discussed as part of a comprehensive plan.
Diagnosis and Early Signs
Early signs include a feeling of fullness, visible stiffness, and uneven skin over the nasal dome. Patients may notice subtle drooping of the nasal tip or narrowing of the nasal airway during breathing. Objective assessment by an experienced surgeon uses palpation, imaging, and endoscopy to map fibrosis.
Early diagnosis helps tailor the revision plan and reduces the risk of worsening obstruction. Clinicians search for implant-related irritation, persistent inflammation, or breakdown of supporting cartilage. Choosing a clinic with clear diagnostic protocols and transparent risk discussions supports safer outcomes.
Revision Rhinoplasty
Revision rhinoplasty focuses on restoring structural support and minimizing scar retraction. Surgeons often use autologous grafts, such as septal cartilage or ear cartilage, to rebuild the framework. Precise fixation and layered soft tissue reconstruction help prevent recontracture and maintain airway patency.
Meticulous planning considers the bulk of soft tissue and the tension created by prior implants. Surgeons balance aesthetic goals with functional needs, prioritizing airway access and long-term stability. Emerging strategies may include adjuncts like stem cell therapies or fat grafting when tissue quality is poor.
Recovery and Aftercare
Postoperative recovery varies with the extent of revision and underlying tissue health. Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness that gradually improves over weeks. Follow-up visits monitor healing, with attention to airway function and nasal symmetry.
Patients receive guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and signs of infection to report. Medical teams emphasize gentle handling of the nose and avoidance of trauma during the first months. Long-term results stabilize over several months, and final appearance may continue to refine up to a year.
Hospital Selection Tips
When selecting a hospital for revision rhinoplasty, prioritize surgeons with a proven track record in nasal reconstruction. Evaluate facility accreditation, sterilization standards, and access to comprehensive postoperative care. Consider the team’s ability to manage complications, including airway concerns and infection.
Ask about patient outcomes, photography documentation, and the availability of adjunct therapies such as autologous grafting. Transparency on costs, consent processes, and recovery timelines supports safer planning. Finally, choose a center that offers thorough follow-up and clear communication in the Korean context.