Natural-Looking Rhinoplasty: Which Material Is Best?

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In modern society, an attractive appearance is considered an important competitive advantage that goes beyond simple aesthetics. Along with this, plastic surgery has also become more common. The nose, in particular, sits at the center of the face and is a key feature that determines one’s overall impression. In the past, a high nasal bridge was regarded as the standard of beauty, but recently, nose shapes that harmonize naturally with each person’s facial structure have become preferred. Today, with autumn upon us, we will take a closer look at the latest trends in natural-looking rhinoplasty and the importance of choosing the right materials for those considering nose surgery.

For natural-looking rhinoplasty, it is very important to carefully choose which material to use. The materials used in rhinoplasty are not selected at random. They should be chosen after comprehensively considering factors such as the individual’s nose shape, previous surgical history, and the condition of the skin and cartilage. The main rhinoplasty materials include septal cartilage, ear cartilage, autologous rib cartilage, and donated rib cartilage. From here, we will explain each material in detail.

First, septal cartilage is a material mainly used to support and shape the nasal tip. It is commonly used in primary rhinoplasty and is one of the representative materials for natural-looking rhinoplasty. Second, ear cartilage is used for people for whom septal cartilage is not suitable. It is cartilage harvested from the ear and is effective for shaping the nasal tip. Third, autologous rib cartilage was previously used mainly for revision surgery or surgery on a contracted nose, but recently it is also often used in primary rhinoplasty. Thanks to its ample quantity and low absorption rate, it is a material that can produce good results. Lastly, donated rib cartilage is a method that uses cartilage from a donor. It is often used when the patient’s own tissue is insufficient or when other materials are not suitable.

Among the materials mentioned above, autologous rib cartilage in particular has recently been used more and more in first-time natural-looking rhinoplasty. Autologous rib cartilage has excellent biocompatibility, so the risk of foreign-body sensation and side effects tends to be low. It also has excellent durability, offering many advantages over other materials, such as a lower likelihood of capsular contracture or shape deformation.

However, when using autologous rib cartilage, cartilage must be harvested from the rib, so cartilage-harvesting technique is just as important as natural-looking rhinoplasty technique. In general, about 1 to 2 cm of cartilage needs to be harvested, and techniques that minimize scarring and pain are required. For this, the skilled technique of an experienced medical team is essential.

At Hyundai Aesthetic Surgery, we help complete our clients’ beauty and confidence based on extensive experience and technical expertise. When you make a reservation and visit our clinic, a board-certified plastic surgeon will provide a detailed and professional consultation. Thank you.