Korean Rhinoplasty - Concerning Nose Bridge Augmentation Material

Various types of implant materials have been used for nasal augmentation. You are right, silicone implants seem to be more commonly used in Asia than in North America. What’s probably more important than the type of implant material is the size of the implant. Too large an implant causing too much stretching of the skin simply will not last. I personally prefer to use Gortex for augmenting the bridge and a patient’s own cartilage for the tip. If you do end up having a silicone implant for the bridge I see no reason for not swimming as long as it has completely healed.

Great question! I have removed silicone and Gortex from the nose in Asians...many of which had their procedure performed abroad. I would recommend using your own tissue.

Specifically , I would recommend a rhino-septoplasty with harvest of both superficial temporal fascia from just above your ear and rib cartilage. The rib and fascia will make a graft of diced cartilage with will augment your radix(bridge) and dorsum and the septal cartilage would be used at the tip. 

Bottom line is, I think it is paramount that you use your own tissue...implants are quick and easy for a nose surgeon to put in, but they are the gift that keeps on giving (infection, malposition, extrusion, etc.)

Aggressive recommendation, but lasting results require preparation and execution.

Hope this helps!

Good luck!

Dr. C

johnconnorsmd.com