Hello, this is Dr. Cha-Young Kang, Director of Nose Lab Clinic.
Today, I’d like to share a successful reconstruction case of a severely contracted nose, 15 years post initial rhinoplasty. Contracted nose correction is an advanced and complex procedure, requiring a comprehensive approach for full restoration.
Before Surgery: Frontal, Left Side, and Oblique Side Views
1. Patient Background and Symptoms
The patient initially underwent rhinoplasty with silicone and septal cartilage in 2008, followed by revision surgery the next year due to contraction. Recently, they experienced significant nasal obstruction and symptoms of rhinitis.
Before Surgery: Oblique Side View, Side View, and Nostril View
On examination:
Frontal View: Excessive nostril show and pinched nasal skin.
Side View: Severely upturned nose tip, excessive nasolabial angle.
Nasal Base View: Asymmetrical nostrils and deviation of the columella to the right.
2. Surgical Plan and Approach
The key to a successful contracted nose reconstruction lies in fully restoring the damaged cartilage framework. Our multi-step approach included the following:
Pre-Surgical Preparation: We used stem cell injections to improve skin elasticity and prepare the nasal tissues for reconstruction.
Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)
Intraoperative Procedure:
Complete Removal of Contracted Tissues: All scarred tissue and the capsule around the previous silicone implant were meticulously removed.
Structural Reconstruction: Since the original septal cartilage was severely depleted, we harvested autologous rib cartilage to reconstruct the nasal structure. The remnant alar cartilage was also reconstructed for a more stable framework.
Columellar and Nasal Bridge Restoration: After implant and capsule removal, the nasal bridge had significantly collapsed. Using autologous rib cartilage, we elevated the bridge to harmonize with the restored tip.
efore (Left) / Immediately After (Right)
efore (Left) / Immediately After (Right)
efore (Left) / Immediately After (Right)
3. Surgical Outcome
Postoperative photos reveal a stable and naturally contoured nasal structure. The previous contraction and distortion were effectively corrected, restoring the nose’s original symmetry and balance.
efore (Left) / Immediately After (Right)
efore (Left) / Immediately After (Right)
4. Conclusion
Immediately After Surgery: Frontal, Left Side, and Oblique Side Views
Immediately After Surgery: Nostril View, Right Side View, and Oblique Side View
Correcting severe nasal contraction is among the most challenging procedures in plastic surgery. It demands a meticulous approach to reconstruct both the septal and alar cartilage, while safely expanding the contracted skin.
At Nose Lab Clinic, we have helped many patients with contracted nose complications rediscover confidence and comfort. We are committed to ongoing research and skill advancement to achieve the best outcomes for our patients.
We hope this case provides valuable insights for anyone facing similar challenges. If you are dealing with complications from nasal contraction, a detailed consultation with an experienced specialist is essential for the best care.
Thank you for reading. This is Dr. Cha-Young Kang from Nose Lab Clinic.
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