Nasal Tip and Bridge Translucency Correction Using Autologous Rib Cartilage and Dermal Graft

[Nose Lab Clinic]

Hello, this is Dr. Cha-Young Kang from Nose Lab Clinic.

Today, I’d like to introduce a case of nasal tip and bridge translucency correction, caused by long-term implant use following an L-shaped silicone rhinoplasty 18 years ago. The patient presented with skin thinning and a chalky appearance along the nose, requiring both structural and aesthetic restoration using autologous rib cartilage and dermal grafts.

Design Consultation: Frontal View, Left Side View, and Oblique Side View Photos

Case Background of Nasal Tip and Bridge Translucency Correction

Surgical History

• 19 years ago: Filler injection

• 18 years ago: L-shaped silicone implant + ear cartilage graft + filler removal

• 6 months later: Aloderm graft due to translucency

Initial Concerns

• Tip cartilage visible through the skin

• Bridge translucency from narrow, elevated silicone

• Skin thinning and rigidity

• Harsh overall facial impression

Design Consultation: Right Side View, Oblique Side View, and Nostril View Photos

Surgical Plan for Translucency Correction

Skin Tension Adjustment

• Lowered nasal tip to reduce pressure

• Applied dermal graft to reinforce thinned skin

Nasal Tip Correction

• Built a solid tip structure using rib cartilage

• Widened cartilage contact area to prevent light reflection

• Ensured durability and natural projection

Bridge Refinement

Removed Silicone Implant

• Replaced rigid implant with broader, softer material

• Added tissue grafts to cover and support the bridge

• Corrected translucency and improved overall contour

Post-Surgical Results of Tip and Bridge Correction

Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)

Nasal Tip:

✔ No more translucency

✔ Balanced width and height

✔ Structurally secure

Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)

Nasal Bridge:

✔ Smooth, natural slope

✔ Chalky effect eliminated

✔ Reinforced with autologous tissue

Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)

Overall Aesthetic:

✔ Softer and more relaxed expression

✔ Smooth transition between tip and bridge

✔ Improved skin thickness and nasal harmony

Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)

Expert Commentary on Treating Nasal Translucency

Immediately After Surgery: Frontal, Side, and Oblique Side View Photos

Immediately After Surgery: Nostril View Photos

This case demonstrates common long-term complications from L-shaped silicone implants — especially translucency and skin thinning.

Our approach involved:

• Tip lowering to reduce tension

• Dermal grafts to strengthen skin

• Rib cartilage to diffuse light and support structure

• A softer, wider implant to enhance harmony

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Through this, we successfully restored a natural and stable nasal shape.

This is Dr. Cha-Young Kang, Chief Surgeon at Nose Lab Clinic.

At Nose Lab, all surgeries are performed using the closed (non-open) technique.

Postoperative precautions and possible complications after rhinoplasty

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