RHINOPLASTY · SEOUL, KOREA

Alar Retraction Correction in Seoul, Korea

Alar retraction correction lowers a nostril rim that has lifted, so that less of the inner nostril shows from the side. Cartilage or composite skin-cartilage grafts are used to bring the rim down.

Procedure time: About 1–2.5 hours
Anesthesia: IV sedation or general anesthesia
Time in Seoul: 7–9 days in Seoul
Recovery: Splint off around day 7

WhatsApp consultation LINE Plan your trip

Medically reviewed by Dr. Yang Dong-Jun, plastic surgeon · Updated October 2026

Alar Retraction Correction at Cellis Lab Clinic, Seoul

Who is Alar Retraction Correction for?

Your nostrils show a lot from the side
Your alar rims lifted after a previous rhinoplasty

How Alar Retraction Correction works

Alar retraction can be natural or caused by scar contracture after rhinoplasty. It creates a curved, high nostril rim and excessive nostril show in profile.

A rim graft or a composite graft from the ear adds length to the lining so the rim can come down. Scar tissue from earlier surgery is released first.

Our approach to Alar Retraction Correction

Rim grafts
Cartilage support lowers and strengthens the rim.
Revision experience
Scarring from earlier surgery is released before grafting.

Alar Retraction Correction: step by step

MeasurementNostril show and rim height are measured in profile.
Graft harvestEar cartilage or a composite graft is harvested.
PlacementThe graft is placed along the rim.
SplintingInternal splints support the rim during healing.

Risks and side effects of Alar Retraction Correction

Swelling and bruisingPeaks at 2–3 days and mostly settles within 2 weeks; fine swelling can take months.
Partial correctionSevere retraction may improve but not fully normalize.
Composite graft takeComposite grafts need good blood supply to survive.

All medical procedures carry risks. Your surgeon will review your medical history, explain the risks that apply to you and discuss alternatives before you decide.

Alar Retraction Correction recovery timeline

When	What to expect
Day 0	Surgery and rest in a private recovery room; most patients return to their hotel the same day. Cold compresses start straight away.
Days 2–3	Swelling and bruising usually peak. Keep your head elevated, walk gently and avoid alcohol, saunas and exercise.
Days 5–7	Check-up at the clinic; stitches, splints or tapes are removed where used. Most patients are cleared to fly after this visit.
Week 2	Most visible swelling has eased and many people return to desk work and light make-up.
Months 1–3	Residual swelling keeps settling and the shape refines. Strenuous exercise is usually resumed after 4 weeks.
Months 6–12	The final result is generally assessed at this stage. We follow up online after you return home.

Aftercare tips

Sleep with your head raised for the first 1–2 weeks.
Do not wear glasses on the bridge for about 4 weeks.
Avoid blowing your nose, swimming and saunas for 2–4 weeks.
Stop aspirin, fish oil and vitamin E 1–2 weeks before surgery unless your doctor says otherwise.
Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 2–4 weeks; both slow healing.

Planning your trip to Seoul for Alar Retraction Correction

For surgery we generally recommend about 7–9 days in Seoul, so stitches or splints can be checked around day 5–7 before you fly home.

Cellis Lab Clinic occupies its own seven-story building at 244 Hyoryeong-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul — next to Gangnam and about an 8-minute walk from Nambu Bus Terminal Station (Line 3, Exit 5). Incheon International Airport is roughly 70–90 minutes away by airport limousine bus or taxi.

Before you book flights, send your photos and questions on WhatsApp. We will reply in English with an initial assessment, a provisional plan and a quote range, then confirm the plan at your in-person consultation.

Read the international patient guide →

What affects the cost of Alar Retraction Correction in Korea?

Closed or open approach
Implant, rib, ear or septal cartilage and dermis
Primary surgery or revision
Combined procedures such as septoplasty or alar reduction

Prices are quoted individually after consultation and include the items listed in your written quote.

Alar Retraction Correction FAQ

What causes alar retraction?

It can be your natural anatomy or the result of cartilage removal and scarring after rhinoplasty.

Is a composite graft visible?

It is placed inside the nostril, so it is usually not noticeable once healed.

Can alar retraction be corrected with filler?

Filler is not a reliable solution; grafting gives a structural correction.

Where can I get Alar Retraction Correction in Seoul, Korea?

Cellis Lab Clinic in Seocho-gu, Seoul — next to Gangnam — performs Alar Retraction Correction. The clinic is an 8-minute walk from Nambu Bus Terminal Station (Line 3, Exit 5).

How much does Alar Retraction Correction cost in Korea?

The cost of Alar Retraction Correction depends on the technique, materials and extent of treatment. We provide a written quote after an online consultation with photos or an in-person examination.

How long should I stay in Korea for Alar Retraction Correction?

For surgery we generally recommend about 7–9 days in Seoul, so stitches or splints can be checked around day 5–7 before you fly home. Your exact schedule is confirmed at consultation.

Can I have a consultation in English before travelling?

Yes. Send photos and your questions on WhatsApp in English. We reply with an initial opinion, a suggested plan and the dates you would need in Seoul.

About your surgeon

Dr. Yang Dong-Jun is a Korean board-certified plastic surgeon with 26 years of surgical experience and the developer of the SOFIT, SOFTXIL and VXIL techniques. He performs the consultation and the operation himself.

Doctor profile (Korean) →

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