Open Rhinoplasty in Seoul, Korea
Open rhinoplasty adds a small stair-step incision across the narrowest part of the columella so the surgeon can lift the tip skin and see the cartilage and septum directly. It is used when the internal framework must be rebuilt — contracted noses, complex revisions and severe asymmetry.
- 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
Who is Open Rhinoplasty for?
- Revision patients whose internal structure has collapsed after earlier surgery
- A contracted nose with a short, upturned, stiff tip
- Severe septal deviation together with an external deformity
How Open Rhinoplasty works
In open rhinoplasty the columella incision is joined to incisions inside the nostrils, allowing the tip skin to be lifted like a hood. The surgeon can then see both sides of the tip cartilage and the septum and adjust them under direct vision.
This visibility matters when cartilage is damaged or scarred, when a septal extension graft must be built, or when rib cartilage is needed for strong support.
The columella incision is designed as a stair-step and closed with fine sutures, so once healed it is usually very hard to see, even at close range.
Our approach to Open Rhinoplasty
Direct 3D view
Both tip cartilages and the septum are exposed, allowing precise, symmetric correction.
Stair-step closure
The columella incision is shaped and finely sutured so it fades well.
Strong structural support
Rib cartilage can be shaped and secured where revision surgery needs a firm framework.
Open Rhinoplasty: step by step
- Detailed examinationWe review cartilage damage, skin thickness and previous operative records to set the scope of reconstruction.
- Stair-step columella incisionThe incision follows the columella and nostril rims to expose the tip structures.
- Structural rebuildingSeptal extension, cartilage suturing and rib cartilage struts create a stable foundation for the tip.
- Bridge refinement and closureThe bridge height is adjusted, the columella is closed with fine sutures and a splint is applied.
Risks and side effects of Open Rhinoplasty
- Columella scarThe line is pink at first and fades over several months with scar care.
- Longer tip swellingBecause the tip skin is lifted, tip swelling can last longer than after closed surgery.
- Temporary numbnessThe tip may feel numb or stiff for a while; sensation usually returns gradually.
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.
Open Rhinoplasty 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 Open Rhinoplasty
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.
What affects the cost of Open Rhinoplasty 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.
Open Rhinoplasty FAQ
When is open rhinoplasty necessary?
It is chosen when the structure must be seen and rebuilt directly — severe contracture, collapsed cartilage after previous surgery, or septal deviation combined with external deformity.
How visible is the open rhinoplasty scar?
It is pink for the first weeks and usually fades over 3–6 months to a fine line that is difficult to find without lifting the tip.
When can I fly after open rhinoplasty?
Usually after the splint and columella stitches are removed around day 5–7, subject to your check-up.
Where can I get Open Rhinoplasty in Seoul, Korea?
Cellis Lab Clinic in Seocho-gu, Seoul — next to Gangnam — performs Open Rhinoplasty. The clinic is an 8-minute walk from Nambu Bus Terminal Station (Line 3, Exit 5).
How much does Open Rhinoplasty cost in Korea?
The cost of Open Rhinoplasty 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 Open Rhinoplasty?
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.
Related rhinoplasty procedures
- Closed RhinoplastyScarless approach through the nostrils
- Custom Implant RhinoplastySOFIT implant designed from your 3D-CT
- Revision RhinoplastyFixing implant, contracture or shape problems
- Nasal Implant & Foreign Body RemovalRemoving silicone implants or old fillers
- Tip PlastyRefining a bulbous, low or drooping tip
- Dorsal AugmentationRaising a low nasal bridge
- Bulbous Nose CorrectionSlimming a wide, round tip
- Alar Base ReductionNarrowing wide or flaring nostrils
- Dorsal Hump ReductionSmoothing a bump on the bridge
- Deviated Nose CorrectionStraightening a crooked nose
- Upturned Nose CorrectionBringing an upturned tip down
- Short Nose LengtheningLengthening a short nose