Implant Removal and Replacement Nose Surgery
Implant Removal and Replacement Surgery: What Patients Need to Know
Implant removal and replacement surgery is a type of revision rhinoplasty performed when a previous nasal implant causes problems or no longer looks natural. In Korea, this procedure is common due to decades of experience managing implant-based rhinoplasty complications and transitioning patients to safer, more stable reconstruction methods.
This guide explains why implant removal is needed, how replacement is done, recovery expectations, and what results to realistically expect.
What Is Implant Removal and Replacement Surgery?
This surgery involves:
- Removing an existing nasal implant (silicone or Gore-Tex)
- Treating scar tissue or inflammation
- Rebuilding the nose using a new structure (often cartilage-based)
Replacement does not always mean inserting another implant. In many modern cases, replacement is done with your own cartilage instead of a new synthetic implant.
Common Reasons Implants Need to Be Removed
Implant removal is recommended when patients experience:
- Implant contracture (hard, tight nose)
- Visible or shifting implant
- Redness, pain, or chronic inflammation
- Implant exposure or thinning skin
- Unnatural height or shape
- Infection (urgent cases)
- Long-term dissatisfaction with appearance
Once these issues begin, they usually do not resolve without surgery.
Does Implant Removal Always Require Replacement?
No. There are three main approaches, depending on your anatomy and condition.
1. Implant Removal + Cartilage Reconstruction (Most Common)
- Implant is removed permanently
- Nose is rebuilt using septal, ear, or rib cartilage
- Lower long-term complication risk
- More natural feel and movement
This is now the preferred approach for many revision cases in Korea.
2. Implant Removal + Smaller / Safer Implant (Selective Cases)
- Used only in carefully selected patients
- Requires thick skin and strong tissue coverage
- Lower profile than original implant
This approach is less common due to recurrence risk.
3. Staged Surgery (Severe Complications)
- Implant removed first
- Nose allowed to heal
- Reconstruction performed later
Used for infection, severe inflammation, or skin damage.
How Implant Removal and Replacement Surgery Is Performed
Step 1: Implant Removal
- Implant is carefully extracted
- Scar capsule is released or partially excised
- Inflammatory tissue is removed
This step immediately relieves pressure on the skin.
Step 2: Scar Tissue Management
- Adhesions are gently released
- Blood flow is preserved
- Tissue flexibility is restored
Over-aggressive removal is avoided to prevent skin damage.
Step 3: Structural Reconstruction
Depending on the case, surgeons may use:
- Septal cartilage (if available)
- Ear cartilage (for coverage and flexibility)
- Rib cartilage (for strong support and length)
This rebuilds:
- Bridge height
- Tip support
- Overall stability
Step 4: Conservative Redesign
Replacement surgery prioritizes:
- Lower, safer height
- Reduced skin tension
- Natural proportions
Extreme height is avoided to prevent repeat complications.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery is often longer than primary rhinoplasty.
Typical timeline
- 1–2 weeks: swelling, splint period
- 1–3 months: gradual shape improvement
- 6–12 months: final stabilization
If rib cartilage is used, mild chest discomfort may occur for a few weeks.
Will the Nose Look Lower After Implant Removal?
Often, yes—and intentionally so.
A slightly lower bridge:
- Protects thin skin
- Reduces recurrence risk
- Looks more natural long-term
Safe replacement focuses on stability, not maximum height.
Risks of Implant Removal and Replacement Surgery
As a revision procedure, risks include:
- Longer swelling
- Scar tissue recurrence
- Asymmetry during healing
- Need for cartilage grafting
- Possible staged surgery
These risks are significantly lower when performed by experienced revision surgeons.
What Does NOT Fix Implant Problems
❌ Fillers to mask implant edges
❌ Threads to lift a contracted nose
❌ Massage to soften contracture
❌ Waiting once skin thinning begins
These approaches usually worsen long-term damage.
How to Prevent Repeat Implant Failure
Experienced surgeons focus on:
- Cartilage-based reconstruction
- Conservative height planning
- Adequate skin and tissue support
- Reducing long-term tension
- Avoiding oversized implants
Modern rhinoplasty trends strongly favor implant-free stability.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may benefit from implant removal and replacement surgery if:
- Your nose feels hard or tight
- The implant is visible or shifting
- Skin looks shiny or thin
- You’ve had multiple nose surgeries
- You want a safer, long-term solution
A detailed in-person consultation is essential.
Final Thoughts
Implant removal and replacement surgery is not just about taking something out—it’s about rebuilding the nose correctly. In Korea, the most successful outcomes come from implant removal followed by cartilage-based reconstruction, not repeat synthetic implants.
When done properly, this surgery restores:
- Natural appearance
- Softness and flexibility
- Long-term safety
Choosing a surgeon experienced in
revision and reconstruction, not just primary rhinoplasty, is the key to a stable, lasting result.




