Tip Cartilage Repositioning and Nasal Implant Removal: Case #2

Tip Cartilage Repositioning and Nasal Implant Removal: Case #2

Removal of nasal implant and tip cartilage reposition

This patient underwent simple augmentation rhinoplasty with an "L"-shaped silicone implant at another clinic 20 years ago.

About 4 years ago, however, the patient began to feel that the nasal tip was becoming twisted and upturned,

and visited our clinic when the skin of the nasal tip turned red, although there was no swelling or pain.

On examination, the nostrils were pulled up into a triangular shape (nostril notching),

and the nasal tip looked angular, as if carved, and tight.

The nasal tip had been lifted by contracture, and the silicone implant on the dorsum

felt rough and uneven because of calcification.

Surgical Details
The silicone and capsule were cleanly removed through a closed approach, and, so that the nasal tip would regain a natural, soft shape like its original form, the tip cartilage that had been pulled upward was repositioned and released.

Removal of nasal implant and tip cartilage reposition4 months after tip cartilage repositioning and nasal implant removal
The tip that had been pulled upward by contracture can be seen to have returned to its original shape. The texture, once rough from calcification, has also returned to a soft, supple feel.

The preoperative view shows the contracture, with the tip angled at a right angle and pulled upward. After surgery, the tip can be seen to have returned from a tight, contracted state to a shape that follows a natural curve.

Even though the implant was removed, the nose did not become lower, and a well-defined line is maintained in the lateral view as well. The patient was very satisfied to have a nose with its original soft feel again.