Structural nose surgery
Open Rhinoplasty in Gangnam, Seoul
full view, precise structure.
Open rhinoplasty gives the surgeon a full view of the nasal tip framework through a tiny incision under the nose. At ONYX in Gangnam, Seoul it is the approach of choice for complex tips, short or crooked noses and revision cases, where every graft has to sit exactly in place.
- 01 1:1 consultation with the operating surgeon
- 02 3D CT scan & virtual simulation before surgery
- 03 Structure-first design with your own cartilage
- 04 English-friendly support via WhatsApp
What is open rhinoplasty?
Open (external) rhinoplasty adds a small incision across the columella, the strip of skin between the nostrils, to the incisions inside the nose. The skin is lifted so the cartilages can be seen and shaped directly.
This direct view allows precise grafting and suturing, which is why it is preferred for structural tip work, lengthening and revision. The small scar usually heals into a fine line that is hard to notice.
| Surgery time | About 2–3 hours |
|---|---|
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia |
| Incisions | Small cut under the nose plus inside the nostrils |
| Splint & stitches | Removed after about 5–7 days |
| Stay in Seoul | About 7–10 days |
| Final result | 12 months (tip swelling lasts longest) |
When open rhinoplasty is the better choice
- Your tip needs major reshaping or strong support
- Your nose is short, upturned or crooked
- You are having revision rhinoplasty
- Rib or ear cartilage grafts are planned
- Your tip is asymmetrical and needs precise correction
For bridge-only changes, a closed approach is often enough. Dr. Yoo chooses the approach based on what needs to be corrected.
How open rhinoplasty is performed
- STEP 01
Plan
3D CT and simulation decide which cartilages to reshape and which grafts are needed.
- STEP 02
Open
A small columella incision allows the skin to be lifted over the tip.
- STEP 03
Rebuild
Cartilages are reshaped and supported with grafts of your own cartilage.
- STEP 04
Close
The skin is re-draped, finely stitched and protected with a splint.
Open vs closed rhinoplasty
| Open | Closed | |
|---|---|---|
| Incision | Under the nose plus inside the nostrils | Inside the nostrils only |
| Visible scar | Fine line that usually fades well | None |
| Precision on the tip | Highest | Good for moderate changes |
| Best for | Complex tips, lengthening, revision | Bridge work, humps, moderate tips |
| Tip swelling | Lasts longer | Often settles sooner |
Open rhinoplasty recovery
Typical timeline only. Healing varies with the procedure, skin thickness and materials used.
- Day 1–3 Swelling, possible bruising and a blocked feeling.
- Day 5–7 Splint and stitches removed, including the columella stitches.
- Week 2–3 Bruising fades; desk work and travel are generally fine.
- Month 3 The nose looks natural; the tip still feels firm.
- Month 12 Tip swelling fully resolves and the final shape shows.
Open Rhinoplasty in Seoul: your questions answered.
Will the open rhinoplasty scar be visible?
The columella scar is small and usually fades to a fine line that people rarely notice at normal distance.
Why does tip swelling last longer after open rhinoplasty?
Lifting the skin disturbs lymphatic drainage at the tip, so swelling there takes longer to settle, often up to a year.
Is open rhinoplasty more painful?
Most patients describe discomfort rather than pain, and it is managed with medication for the first few days.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
About 7–10 days, so the splint and stitches can be removed before you fly.
Do I need open or closed rhinoplasty?
It depends on your tip and goals. Send photos on WhatsApp for a preliminary opinion; the final choice follows a 3D CT scan.
Often considered together
Plan your open rhinoplasty consultation in Gangnam, Seoul.
Address
8F, 18 Gangnam-daero 94-gil
Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Getting here
Near Gangnam Station
Line 2 · Shinbundang Line
Hours (KST)
Mon–Fri 10:00–19:00
Sat 10:00–16:00
Closed Sundays & public holidays
Contact
