First Rhinoplasty (Primary)
Tailored consultation for those considering a first rhinoplasty. From choosing materials to design and recovery, Dr. Lee Mooyoung guides you in person.
First rhinoplasty, In short?
3D nasolabial-angle rhinoplasty corrects the angle the nose and lips make together, creating a three-dimensional, refined impression. Refining the angle can make the nose look higher even at the same height, with easing of mouth protrusion and more dimension in the midface. At SM Plastic Surgery, detailed pre-operative assessment shapes a plan to suit you; the muscle pulling the tip down is incised to reduce that pull, and the anterior nasal spine is raised vertically to build a structure supporting the tip. How well it holds varies from person to person with the state of the tissue.
Source: SM Plastic Surgery Lee Mooyoung Director (board-certified plastic surgeon, clinical experience 24 years)
Key Facts
| Procedure time | 1-2 hours |
|---|---|
| Anesthesia Method | Sedation Anesthesia |
| Return to daily life | Back to daily life after 7 days |
| Suture Removal | After 7 days |
| Follow-up visits | 2–3 times |
Procedure Information
Treatment Area: Nose
Procedure Type: Surgical procedure
Attending Physician: Director Lee Mooyoung
SM's approach
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nasolabial angle?
The nasolabial angle is the angle between the nose and the upper lip. The ideal range is roughly 95°–105° for women and 90°–95° for men. Too narrow an angle makes the tip look drooping; too wide an angle makes it look upturned.
What is done to reduce drooping of the nasal tip?
At SM Plastic Surgery, the depressor septi nasi — the muscle that pulls the tip down — is incised to guard against tip droop. When the cartilage strut of the tip (septum, ear cartilage, rib cartilage) is set upright, the anterior nasal spine is raised vertically, building a structure that supports the tip and keeps the nasolabial area from hollowing. How well it holds varies from person to person with the state of the tissue.
Does correcting the nasolabial angle also improve a protruding mouth?
Yes — refining the nasolabial angle while keeping the dimension of the nose can make a protruding mouth appear to recede. As the whole midface gains dimension, the protrusion softens naturally.
Can surgery be done with rhinitis?
Yes. Rhinitis can in fact be improved as part of the functional treatment. A deviated septum, nasal valve stenosis, hypertrophic rhinitis and the like can be corrected at the same time as rhinoplasty, and where the operation is classified as treatment for a nasal condition, cover may apply depending on the private or indemnity insurance you hold.
How long does recovery take?
Sutures come out after 7 days, after which daily life can resume. Swelling subsides by 70% or more within 2–4 weeks, and the final result settles after 3–6 months.
Consultation guide
Phone: +82-2-537-3707
Location: 9F, 435 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea (Gangnam Station)