Yes, there is a small scar — but incision length isn't actually the main factor that determines how well it heals. What matters more is how long the wound stays open during surgery. A wound that's open for 1-3 hours, which is common with standard rib cartilage harvesting, has considerably more time for tissue trauma and inflammation to build up than a wound that's closed within 10-20 minutes.
This is precisely where Dr. Kim's harvesting technique makes a genuine difference. His harvesting approach itself — not just the incision size — allows him to complete the rib cartilage harvest in as little as 10-20 minutes, dramatically shorter than the 1-3 hours harvesting typically takes at most clinics. A shorter open-wound time generally means less tissue trauma, less inflammation, and a scar that tends to heal more cleanly.
With proper wound care, this incision typically heals into a thin, fading line over the following months. Some patients experience hypertrophic (slightly raised) scarring, which published research puts at roughly a 3-5% likelihood — Dr. Kim discusses your personal scarring tendency during consultation, since this can factor into aftercare recommendations.
Consultation Tip
When comparing clinics, ask specifically how long rib cartilage harvesting typically takes with that surgeon — it's a more meaningful indicator of likely scar outcome than incision length alone.
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