Hello, I am Dr. Chayoung Kang, Director of Noselab Rhinoplasty Clinic.
Challenges of Small Nose Correction
Today, we will discuss a Small Nose Correction case combined with blunt tip refinement.
At Noselab, we often see patients with small noses and limited skin elasticity, which makes correction difficult. In this case, the patient wanted a more defined nose despite having a naturally small and blunt tip.
Challenges of Rhinoplasty for Small Noses
At Noselab, we have encountered a wide variety of patient cases, particularly focusing on nasal surgery. Personally, the most challenging cases are those involving small noses with tight skin. In today’s case, the patient desired a more elaborate nose, despite having a small nose. During the consultation, I informed them that significant height adjustment was not possible due to skin limitations, but I assured them of my best efforts within the feasible range. Given the small size of the nose and cartilage, we opted to use autologous costal cartilage.
Nasal Congestion Examination
The patient exhibited symptoms of nasal congestion, prompting a detailed examination. Through nasal endoscopy, we observed a deviation of the septal cartilage to the right, enlarged blood vessels on the mucosal membrane, and an enlarged left inferior turbinate. Additionally, the mucous membrane appeared pale, indicating allergic rhinitis.
A CT scan revealed severe septal deviation to the right, causing significant narrowing of the right nasal space. Considering these findings and the patient’s nasal congestion symptoms, we planned a septoplasty to correct the septal deviation and a turbinate resection using high-frequency laser.
Surgical Findings
During surgery, the septal cartilage was thinner and more curved than expected. We performed a partial reconstruction using autologous costal cartilage. This significantly improved the curvature and strengthened the nasal septum. Subsequently, a septal extension graft using autologous costal cartilage was performed to straighten the nose tip. Due to limited skin elasticity at the nose tip, we gradually pulled the surrounding skin to raise the nose tip safely.
Before and After Surgery Photos
Side Profile Enhancement
Post-surgery, the nose tip is noticeably higher, and the nasolabial angle is corrected. The starting point between the eyebrows has been naturally lowered, and the previously lifted nose tip is now properly aligned. The bridge’s curvature to the right has also improved.
Frontal View Transformation
From the front view, the nose tip, which appeared blunt and lifted, is now well-defined.
The columella curvature is corrected, resulting in longer nostrils.
After Surgery Photos
General Review
Correcting a short nose is always a meticulous task, especially with limited skin. The key is to strengthen the nose tip cartilage and pull the surrounding skin as much as possible. This procedure is challenging, but seeing post-surgery improvements is rewarding. However, managing patient expectations is crucial. The goal is to achieve the best possible outcome within safe limits, avoiding excessive elevation which can lead to visible cartilage, redness, or asymmetry.
Conclusion
Today, we explored the process of making a small, blunt nose more aesthetically pleasing. I hope this discussion is helpful for those with similar concerns.
Dr. Chayoung Kang
Director of Noselab Clinic
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