Nose implant alternatives in Asian Rhinoplasty?

Surgery with silicone implants is quicker, since they are pre-fabricated and easier to place than autologous grafts (tissue from your own body), and the recovery may be a bit easier. The results may also look good for several years, however they are not a permanent solution. As long as the implant is in place there will be an associated risk of infection, migration, and extrusion (coming through the skin) which is higher than that of autologous grafts. The reason for the lack of permanence is that synthetic implants never become fully incorporated into your body. Using tissue from your own body will give you the safest, longest lasting results and a beautiful nose. Your own tissue has a much lower risk of infection or extrusion. Cartilage can be harvested from within your nose (septum) or from your ear, through an incision hidden in the crease behind your ear. Even in Asian patients these areas heal impeccably.

One can use fillers to augment the dorsum of the nose and I do so to get an instant rhinoplasty but that is not a permanent procedure.  If you do use fillers, make sure to use a hyaluronic acid filler.  Silicone implants are certainly not my preference-I use either autologous rib or fresh frozen rib to give the look you desire for a dorsal augmentation.  However, to augment the tip one should use the patient’s own autologous cartilage.It is very important to seek a board certified plastic surgeon or ENT surgeon who is a true expert in ethnic rhinoplasty. 

Use your own tissue to build up the bridge. Cartilage from your septum and your ear will be sufficient to build your bridge without having to resort to rib. There's no more a natural look than using your own tissues.

Besides silicone implants other options include using your own cartilage (septum, ear, or rib). Other materials that implants can be made of include gortex and portex. Depending on your goals there are several options. I tend to prefer using patient's own tissue for these types of cases, but with bridge augmentation a synthetic implant can have its place, if you understand the risks.

An in person exam woul allow for a better evaluation of your options and a more detailed discussion of the pros and cons of the various approaches.

You are right. Augmenting the bridge gives a more narrow appearance on the front view. A conservative augmentation will minimize this. Consult a rhinoplasty expert who performs computer imaging to get a sense for how this would look on you.

Alternatives to silicone include Gore-tex or your own cartilage. Cartilage can be taken from your septum or external ear.  Both are excellent alternatives.

In terms of recovery, swelling and bruising is at its worst on day three following surgery, and usually subsides two weeks following surgery. Follow the link before to find out detailed information about Asian Augmentation Rhinoplasty and what to expect from the recovery period, including when you can go back to work and regular activities.