A contracted nose — where the nasal tip and skin have shortened and pulled upward, often exposing the nostrils from a front view — is one of the more challenging complications in revision rhinoplasty, since it involves both a shortage of skin and soft tissue and significant scar tissue contracture pulling everything upward.
Correction requires releasing the contracted scar tissue to bring the tip and skin envelope back down to a natural length, then rebuilding structural support strong enough to hold that new, lengthened position against the scar tissue's tendency to pull it back up over time. This is a case where the choice of augmentation material genuinely matters: because contracted-nose patients often have thinner, more compromised skin from previous surgeries, this skin tends to react more sensitively to silicone implants, with a higher chance of visibility, irritation, or renewed contracture around a rigid synthetic material. For this reason, Dr. Kim specifically recommends Ribfit — his proprietary technique using finely processed autologous rib cartilage particles — for contracted nose correction, since it integrates with the body's own tissue and is far less likely to provoke the kind of skin sensitivity that can undermine the result.
Consultation Tip
If you're dealing with a contracted nose, ask Dr. Kim specifically about the Ribfit option and why it may be preferable to silicone for your particular skin condition — understanding this reasoning helps you make a more informed decision about your revision.
Ready to talk to Dr. Kim? Reach out on WhatsApp to book your video consultation: Chat with us on WhatsApp (+82 10-4434-6234)
— Dr. Hyung-taek Kim, KOWON Plastic Surgery