Precautions When Choosing Nasal Implants! #rhinoplasty

 Precautions When Choosing Nasal Implants

Asians tend to have smaller and more delicate facial features compared to Westerners, so many seek rhinoplasty to enhance their facial contour. With advancements in technology, more detailed changes can be made, and a wider range of materials can be used, resulting in higher satisfaction with the outcomes. However, many people undergo surgery without clearly understanding which procedure and materials are best for them, leading to frequent reconsideration for revision surgery, so it should not be taken lightly.

Especially since the nose plays a crucial functional role, extra caution is needed. Let's take a closer look at the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of nasal implants and autologous cartilage, and the precautions to consider when choosing them.

What are the differences between nasal implants and autologous tissue?

The materials mainly used in rhinoplasty are artificial tissue and autologous tissue, and the choice depends on the surgical site, treatment process, and the extent of changes needed.

1) Artificial tissue

Silicone and Gore-Tex are typical examples, with a variety of nasal implant designs that can be directly shaped and molded. The materials are strong and provide excellent support, making them advantageous for those needing significant changes or strong nasal support. However, they can cause adverse reactions such as capsular contracture and may look artificial.

2) Autologous tissue

This refers to materials harvested from the patient's body, such as rib cartilage, ear cartilage, and septal cartilage. Using tissues from the patient's own body significantly reduces the risk of rejection, and the results are very natural. Additionally, the presence of the material is not noticeable, making it suitable for people with thin skin. However, there are limitations in harvesting these tissues, and in the case of ear or rib cartilage, additional incisions may leave scars.

What is septal cartilage?

It is a type of membrane that separates the two nostrils, made of soft cartilage. It is also a preferred material for nasal implants that can be harvested from one's own body.

* Advantage : 

- It can be harvested during rhinoplasty without the need for additional incisions.

- It is stronger than soft materials, making it versatile for use in the nasal tip, bridge, and other areas.

- Even if it is removed, the surrounding membrane can still function as the septum, making it less burdensome to use.

* Disadvantage :

- It is difficult to use if it is congenitally small or damaged due to trauma.

- There are limitations to shaping it, so thorough consultation with a medical professional is necessary.

- Once used, it does not regenerate, so other materials must be chosen for revision surgery.

If it is difficult to use septal cartilage!

If septal cartilage cannot be harvested or is insufficient for the desired change, ear or rib cartilage should be used.

1. Ear cartilage

It is the soft bone that makes up the ear, and it is the second most commonly used autologous implant after septal cartilage.

* Advantage:

- It can be harvested in larger quantities than septal cartilage. 

- It is soft and flexible, making it suitable for those seeking natural changes.

* Disadvantage: 

- Additional incisions are required, which can leave scars.

- It is not suitable when strong support is needed.

2. Rib cartilage

It is the cartilage located below the ribs.

*Advantage : 

- It provides the largest amount of usable cartilage.

- It is strong and provides excellent support, making it useful for significant changes. 

- It is helpful when the shape is severely damaged due to cartilage injury or traffic accidents.

*Disadvantage : 

- Additional incisions are necessary.

- The harvesting process is complex and demanding, requiring strong anesthesia, which can incur additional costs.

Precautions when choosing materials!

The preferred materials for nasal implants vary depending on the medical professional, so this should be carefully considered when choosing a surgeon. The materials used may be limited by the area and extent of change desired, so it is important to first assess what treatment is currently needed.

Rather than blindly raising the nose and making the tip sharp, it is wise to choose a design that harmonizes with the facial features and select materials accordingly.

Since it is difficult for the general public to make these decisions, it is advisable to choose a medical professional with experience and a variety of cases.

To increase satisfaction!

We have reviewed in detail the characteristics and precautions of various nasal implants. Since plastic surgery generally aims to bring positive aesthetic changes, many people undergo surgical correction to improve their complexes, often pursuing excessive designs. If the nose is raised without considering that the skin does not stretch well, the implant may become noticeable, giving an artificial look and potentially causing a pig nose appearance due to capsular contracture.

Therefore, always remember to decide on the materials, design, and surgical methods through thorough consultation with your medical professional.