Is removing a silicone nose implant after 15 years recommended? What are "less" invasive recommendations for a revision?(photos)

Question

I had an Asian rhinoplasty with a silicone nose implant over 15 years ago. I feel the implant is not straight and doesn't look natural. Over the years I've considered getting a revision but the recent suggestions are very invasive (with grafts and open procedures) and I feel it has a high risk of looking worse with time (due to warp, etc). My current thought is to remove the implant and not get anything else done. Since it's been 15 years, would you recommend removing it? Other recommendations?

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

The silicone implant can be safely removed at any point after surgery. Since it is a foreign body, the silicone will not become incorporated into your nose and it will gradually thin out the skin of your nose. 
Cartilage from your own body (septum, ear, or rib cartilage) will last permanently. However if you like the look of the silicone implant, ear cartilage may not be sufficient and rib cartilage may be necessary to achieve the same degree of augmentation and refinement.Finding a rhinoplasty specialist experienced in Asian rhinoplasty will be crucial in achieving the best results. Depending on what changes were made to your nose, returning to natural may or may not be straightforward.

Behrooz Torkian, MD · Answer

Hello strive4happy.A silicone implant in the nose can be removed safely.  You may, however, be unhappy with the loss of volume and projection that the implant is giving you.  For this reason, once you heal, you would possibly then be motivated to replace the projection and volume to restore the current look with the implant.  During that time, the healing process may cause contracture in the skin that could make it more difficult to get the ideal projection and bridge result.  Given these facts, I would recommend that you consider reconstruction with a rib graft, or auricular cartilage graft at the time of the implant removal.  In the long term, you will be happier.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Rhinoplasty revision after removal of silicone implant? Your nose does not require an open rhinoplasty! You absolutely will need cartilage grafts after removal of silicone implant. See a very experienced revision rhinoplasty surgeon for this.

Julie Edween, DO · Answer

strive4happy,To maintain your nasal profile and projection after your implant is removed will definitely require a revision rhinoplasty.  During your consultation with a revision rhinoplasty specialist you will be able to discuss the various options on how to achieve this.  If you just remove the implant without doing anything else, you will loose the definition that you currently have.  Best of luck!

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

Nasal revision may or may not be necessary.   You actually look quite good and could just leave well enough alone.  If you insist on revision that also is fine.    Remove the implant and leave it out for 6 months.  See how you feel.   You can always replace it if you wish and care can be taken to get it straight.     My Best,  Dr Commons

Is removing a silicone nose implant after 15 years recommended? What are "less" invasive recommendations for a revision?(photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Removing silicone implant and Revision Rhinoplasty

Answer: Removing silicone implant and Revision Rhinoplasty

Answer: Nasal Deformity and revision

Answer: Nasal Deformity and revision

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Everything you need to know about Asian Rhinoplasty

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Is removing a silicone nose implant after 15 years recommended? What are "less" invasive recommendations for a revision?(photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Removing silicone implant and Revision Rhinoplasty

Answer: Removing silicone implant and Revision Rhinoplasty

Answer: Nasal Deformity and revision

Answer: Nasal Deformity and revision

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Asian Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.