Safety in nose revision
Safety is the cornerstone of nose revision surgery, especially when fat grafting is used to adjust contour. In Korea, surgeons emphasize precise anatomical assessment, functional preservation, and cautious planning. Autologous fat reduces immunologic risk, but results hinge on technique and patient biology. Preoperative discussions should cover realistic expectations, potential risks, and the likelihood of staged procedures.
Preoperative evaluation should map bone and cartilage, nasal airflow, skin thickness, and scar risk. Avoiding overcorrection minimizes the chance of asymmetry or palpable lumps. Choosing an experienced surgeon with revision rhinoplasty experience is essential.
Role of fat grafting
Fat grafting adds volume to depressions and smooths irregularities after prior rhinoplasty. It is effective for cosmetic refinements and tip fullness but does not replace structural support when bones or cartilage are misaligned. Multiple sessions may be needed to achieve the desired contour because fat survival varies. Surgeons must carefully select injection planes to avoid affecting nasal function.
Donor sites such as the abdomen or thighs are chosen to minimize visible scarring. Fat is processed to retain viable cells and then injected in small aliquots into strategic layers. Graft take is monitored over weeks, with revisions planned based on healing and symmetry.
Recovery and healing
Postoperative care includes nasal splints or shields, gentle swelling management, and careful breathing. Expect mild bruising and temporary fullness that can persist for weeks. Patients should avoid smoking, strenuous activity, and pressure on the nose to protect graft survival.
Results stabilize over months as the graft revascularizes and tissue settles. Some fat may resorb, necessitating touch-up sessions for optimal symmetry. Infection, oil cysts, or asymmetry are uncommon but possible complications. Regular follow-up helps catch issues early and guides timing of any additional treatment.
Nose revision options
In many cases, fat grafting is combined with cartilage grafts to restore both contour and support. If dorsum straightening or tip projection is required, dorsal augmentation or tip refinement may be performed. Structural corrections often determine the longevity of cosmetic improvements.
When selecting a clinic, verify board certification, specific experience in revision rhinoplasty, and access to imaging. Review before and after photos and ask about complication rates and long-term outcomes. Discuss pricing, anesthesia, recovery expectations, and whether staged procedures are advisable for safety. A well-prepared plan reflects Korea's high safety standards, the surgeon's nuanced understanding of function and aesthetics, and modern trends toward safer fat processing and patient-specific strategies.