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This case demonstrates closed rhinoplasty Korea for correcting cartilage show-through and an over-projected nasal tip caused by multiple previous surgeries. Structural refinement combined with dermis grafting restored soft tissue thickness, improved nasal contour, and achieved long-term stability.

✅ Author / Published / Updated

  • Dr. Cha-Young Kang

  • NoseLab Clinic

  • Published: 2025

  • Last Updated: 2026


This patient presented for revision rhinoplasty after multiple prior procedures, including cartilage grafting, silicone implantation, and dermal graft use.


Over time, the patient developed thinning of the nasal tip skin, visible cartilage show-through, and an over-projected, sharp nasal tip.


In this closed rhinoplasty Korea case, the goal was not simply to reduce projection but to restore soft tissue balance and structural stability.


Key concerns included:

  • Cartilage show-through due to thin skin

  • Overly sharp and projected nasal tip

  • Narrow nasal structure creating imbalance

  • Excessive nostril exposure

  • Thin columella and unstable tip support

  • Chronic nasal congestion and airway issues


This case required a soft tissue–based reconstruction approach rather than aggressive cartilage reduction.


If you are experiencing similar issues after previous rhinoplasty, a detailed structural evaluation is important.


📩 International Consultation

Preoperative consultation photos (frontal, side, and oblique views) showing nasal tip cartilage show-through and structural issues before revision rhinoplasty.
Design Consultation: Frontal View, Left Side View, and Oblique Side View Photos
Original image ↗

✅ Surgical Background – Closed Rhinoplasty Korea


Closed rhinoplasty Korea allows precise internal correction without external scars.


In cases involving thin skin and cartilage visibility, preservation of structural support and augmentation of soft tissue are essential.


This approach enables controlled revision while minimizing further damage to already compromised tissues.

Preoperative consultation images (right side, oblique, and nostril views) highlighting cartilage show-through, nasal tip sharpness, and excessive nostril exposure before revision surgery.
Design Consultation: Right Side View, Oblique Side View, and Nostril View Photos
Original image ↗

✅ Structural Problems Identified


Preoperative analysis revealed:

  • Extremely thin nasal tip skin

  • Visible cartilage due to inadequate soft tissue coverage

  • Over-projected nasal tip

  • Narrow nasal dorsum and tip

  • Mild nasal deviation

  • Weak structural balance due to multiple prior surgeries

  • Functional issues including airway obstruction and rhinitis


These findings indicated the need for combined structural and soft tissue reconstruction.


✅ Surgical Plan


1. Dermis Graft for Soft Tissue Reinforcement

Autologous dermis was harvested and placed over the nasal tip to increase thickness and mask cartilage visibility.


2. Structural Realignment

Lateral osteotomy was performed to correct nasal deviation and improve structural balance.


3. Nasal Tip Refinement

The over-projected tip was adjusted while maintaining adequate structural support.


4. Columella and Nasolabial Angle Adjustment

The columella was repositioned to improve nasal-lip harmony.


5. Proportion Adjustment

The nasal bridge and tip width were slightly adjusted to achieve a more natural balance.


6. Functional Correction

Airway obstruction and rhinitis-related issues were addressed to improve breathing.


✅ Surgical Results

Frontal view comparison: Before (left) and immediately after (right) revision rhinoplasty for correcting nasal tip cartilage show-through and nostril exposure.
Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)
Original image ↗

Frontal View

  • Cartilage show-through eliminated

  • Improved symmetry

  • Softer nasal contour

Left side view comparison: Before (left) and immediately after (right) revision rhinoplasty for correcting sharp nasal tip and cartilage show-through.
Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)
Original image ↗

Lateral View

  • Reduced tip projection

  • Improved nasolabial angle

  • Natural profile restored

Oblique view comparison: Before (left) and immediately after (right) revision rhinoplasty to correct sharp nasal tip and cartilage show-through.
Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)
Original image ↗

Oblique View

  • Balanced contour

  • Reduced sharpness of nasal tip

Nostril base view comparison: Before (left) and immediately after (right) revision rhinoplasty to correct cartilage show-through at the nasal tip.
Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)
Original image ↗

Functional Outcome

  • Improved airflow

  • Reduced nasal congestion

  • Stabilized nasal structure


✅ Surgeon’s Commentary


Cartilage show-through is not a simple aesthetic issue but a structural and soft tissue problem.


In many cases, reducing cartilage alone can worsen instability.


Instead, increasing soft tissue thickness using dermis grafting is a more effective and stable solution.


This case required balancing projection reduction with preservation of support.


Closed rhinoplasty Korea allows precise adjustments in these complex situations while minimizing additional trauma.


If you have thin skin or visible cartilage after rhinoplasty, a structural approach is essential.


📩 International Consultation

Immediately after surgery: Frontal, side, and oblique side view photos showing correction of nasal tip cartilage show-through and improved nasal contour.
Immediately After Surgery: Frontal, Side, and Oblique Side View Photos
Original image ↗

✅ FAQ


Q1. Why does cartilage show-through occur?

It occurs when the skin becomes too thin to conceal underlying cartilage, often after multiple surgeries.


Q2. Can trimming cartilage solve this issue?

No. Excessive trimming can weaken structure and worsen long-term results.


Q3. Why use dermis graft instead of implants?

Dermis graft integrates naturally with tissue and provides safe, stable soft tissue coverage.


🎥 YouTube Reference

If you’re curious about Dr. Cha-Young Kang’s closed rhinoplasty approach, click to watch the video.


Postoperative precautions and possible complications after rhinoplasty – includes information on infection, bleeding, asymmetry, allergic reactions, and scarring.
Case photograph 8
Original image ↗

This case is for educational purposes and represents a clinical example.

Results may vary depending on individual anatomy and surgical history.

All procedures were performed by a qualified specialist.






Read the author’s background and the original case context. About these articles

Source updated .